Hi, I'm Dr. Sarah Jones, a board-certified OB/GYN. I've been practicing for over 15 years, and I'm passionate about providing evidence-based information to empower women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health. One question I often get asked is about emergency contraception and its potential impact on fertility. So, let's break it down.

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), also known as the morning-after pill, are medications designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. There are two main types of ECPs:

* **Levonorgestrel (LNG) ECPs (Plan B One-Step, Aftera, Take Action):** These are the most common type and contain a synthetic form of the hormone progestin.
* Ulipristal acetate (UPA) ECPs (ella): This type contains a different medication that blocks the effects of progesterone, a hormone crucial for pregnancy.

It's crucial to understand that ECPs are not the same as abortion pills. They do not terminate an existing pregnancy. They work primarily by delaying or preventing ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary). If ovulation has already occurred, LNG ECPs may prevent fertilization of the egg by sperm.

Now, let's address the critical question: **Can emergency contraceptive pills cause infertility? The short answer is no. Extensive scientific research has consistently shown no link between ECP use and future infertility.**

Here's a closer look at the evidence:

* **Numerous studies, including large-scale reviews, have demonstrated that using ECPs, even repeatedly, does not negatively impact a woman's ability to conceive later.**
* **The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine, and the World Health Organization (WHO) all affirm that ECPs do not cause infertility.**

It's understandable why some people might have concerns. Misinformation and myths about ECPs are unfortunately common. Some falsely claim that ECPs damage the fallopian tubes or cause hormonal imbalances that lead to infertility. However, **these claims are not supported by scientific evidence.** ECPs work primarily by targeting ovulation and have no lasting impact on the fallopian tubes or long-term hormone levels.

Here are some points to remember:

* **ECPs are safe and effective for preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex.**
* **Using ECPs, even multiple times, does not make it harder to get pregnant in the future.**
* **If you have concerns about ECPs or your fertility, it's crucial to talk to a healthcare provider who can provide accurate and evidence-based information.**

Ultimately, **decisions about contraception are personal.** Choosing the right method for you depends on your individual needs and circumstances. If you are concerned about the potential side effects of ECPs or have questions about their use, please don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and help you make informed decisions about your reproductive health.

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--Besides side effects, like nausea, heavy bleeding and cramps, regular use of emergency contraception may cause infertility and in some instances increase the risk of cancer,-- declared one BBC story on emergency contraceptive pills in Kenya.read more >>