A post-coital IUD can also be inserted to prevent pregnancy. This can be done up five to seven days after unprotected sex. A clinician can insert an IUD for emergency contraception within five days of unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy. Emergency IUD insertion reduces the risk of pregnancy by 99.9 percent.

It can be left in place for up to 12 years for very effective contraception. Or the IUD can be removed after your next menstrual period, when it is certain that you are not pregnant.

The IUD costs about $400 for exam, IUD, and insertion.

IUD insertion is not recommended for

• Women at risk for sexually transmitted infection at the time of insertion

• Women who have been raped

Side Effects of Emergency IUDs

• Heavier and longer menstrual bleeding is expected with copper IUDs-this usually becomes less over time

• Cramping may occur in the first several days

• Bleeding between menses may occur in the first few months of use.

Note: Neither of these methods helps protect you against Sexually Transmitted Diseases.

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