Emergency Contraception Glossary
Understand medical terminology related to emergency contraception. Simple, clear definitions for common terms.
Tingnan sa Tagalog →C
Contraceptive Failure
GeneralWhen a birth control method does not work as intended, such as a condom breaking or missing birth control pills.
Copper IUD
MedicationAn intrauterine device that can be used as emergency contraception when inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex, and then provides ongoing contraception.
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Emergency Contraception
GeneralBirth control methods used after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure to prevent pregnancy.
Efficacy
GeneralA measure of how well a medication or treatment works under ideal conditions, often expressed as a percentage.
Ectopic Pregnancy
ProcessA pregnancy that develops outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube. A medical emergency requiring immediate care.
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Morning After Pill
GeneralA common term for emergency contraception pills taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy.
Menstrual Cycle
ProcessThe monthly hormonal cycle that prepares the body for pregnancy, typically lasting 21-35 days.
Mifestad
MedicationA brand name emergency contraception pill containing ulipristal acetate 30mg, effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex.
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Progestin
MedicationA synthetic form of the hormone progesterone, used in many contraceptives including emergency contraception.
Progesterone
AnatomyA natural hormone produced by the ovaries that plays a key role in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
Postinor
MedicationA brand name emergency contraception pill containing levonorgestrel 1.5mg, effective up to 72 hours after unprotected sex.
Plan B
MedicationA widely used term for emergency contraception (the morning-after pill) in the Philippines. While Plan B is a US brand name, Filipinos use it to refer to any emergency contraceptive pill, including Postinor (levonorgestrel) and Mifestad (ulipristal acetate).
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Spotting
Side EffectLight bleeding or discharge between periods, which may occur as a normal side effect of emergency contraception.
Side Effects
GeneralUnintended effects of a medication, which for emergency contraception are typically mild and temporary.
Sperm
AnatomyMale reproductive cells that can fertilize an egg. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to 5 days.
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