WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Emergency contraception (EC), also known as the morning-after pill, is a type of birth control used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours, but can work up to 72 hours or even up to 120 hours after intercourse, depending on the type of pill. EC does not terminate an existing pregnancy and is not a substitute for regular contraceptive methods.