Emergency contraception helps prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, a broken condom, or a missed pill. It doesn’t cause an abortion, it simply stops or delays ovulation or prevents fertilisation.

💡 Read our blog post for the full breakdown on emergency contraception.

There are two main options available in South Africa:

• Morning-after pills (like levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate), best taken within 72 hours, but can work up to 5 days depending on the type.

• Copper IUD, can be inserted up to 5 days after unprotected sex and is the most effective emergency contraception available.

It temporarily delays ovulation, so no egg is released to meet sperm. If fertilisation has already happened, it won’t affect an existing pregnancy.

The Copper IUD releases copper ions that are toxic to sperm, stopping fertilisation and preventing the egg from implanting. It also doubles as long-term birth control for up to 10 years once inserted.

The Copper IUD is the most effective, with a failure rate of less than 1%, while the morning-after pill works best when taken as soon as possible.

Yes. Both methods are medically approved and safe for most women. Some may experience temporary side effects like mild nausea or spotting, but these usually settle quickly.

You can get the morning-after pill directly from Mums & Bums Centurion, where a nurse can advise you on whether the Copper IUD might be the better option.

• Morning-after pill: Around R60 – R200 at Mums & Bums.

• Copper IUD: From R700 – R1 200 for the device, plus a nurse insertion fee. We will discuss both options with you during your consultation.