Having unprotected sex during childbearing age inevitably leads to the risk of unplanned pregnancy. The calendar method and interrupted intercourse are unreliable and misleading. The use of an IUD placed by a doctor or the application of hormonal products after consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist are safe methods of protection against unwanted pregnancy in women. In cases where you have had unprotected sex, the only thing you can do is take an emergency contraceptive pill. It should be adopted as soon as possible to be as effective as possible. The drug works by stopping or delaying ovulation, but if ovulation has already occurred, it cannot be stopped and the likelihood of pregnancy is high. Currently, two medications can be found on our pharmacy market: Levonorgestrel and Ulipristal. Both products are available over the counter. Levonorgestrel is effective in the first 72 hours after sex, and Ulipristal gives an effect up to 120 hours after intercourse. And yet it is recommended that they be taken as soon as possible to be maximally effective. It is important to know that these products do not affect an already occurring pregnancy, but have the effect of preventing one. Both medications are for single use as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. It is important to know that they do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases! Adverse drug reactions. Emergency contraception products are well tolerated. The most commonly reported complaints are headache, nausea and change in the menstrual cycle. After taking an emergency contraceptive pill, the menstrual cycle may occur a few days earlier or later than expected. If the period is more than seven days late, it is recommended to take a pregnancy test and visit your gynecologist. Contraindications. Hormones for emergency contraception are not indicated for use in existing or suspected pregnancy, as well as during breastfeeding. More than one intake per month is also not recommended, due to the risk of hormonal imbalance and changes in the monthly cycle. The use of emergency contraceptives in persons under 16 years of age is not recommended. Drug interactions. Simultaneous intake of Levonorgestrel and Ulipristal with antituberculosis, sedative, antiepileptic, antiviral, antiulcer, St. John’s wort can significantly reduce the effect of hormones. Bibliography: Lippincott Illustrated Reviews: Pharmacology (Lippincott Illustrated Reviews Series) Seventh, North American Edition