Health Information
Progestin for Emergency Contraception
How It Works
Emergency contraception pills work by preventing ovulation, fertilization, or implantation.
Emergency contraception hormones may prevent fertilization by stopping the ovary from releasing an egg (ovum). They also make the fallopian tubes less likely to move an egg toward the uterus. Emergency contraception is also thought to thin the lining of the uterus, or Reference endometrium Opens New Window. The thickened endometrium is where a fertilized egg would normally implant and grow.
Emergency contraception does not protect against Reference sexually transmitted infections (STIs) Opens New Window.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: May 4, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Femi Olatunbosun, MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
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