What is it?

The emergency IUD or morning-after IUD is an emergency contraception. You can use it if you forgot to use protection or if you have a problem with your normal contraceptive method, for example if the condom broke or if you forgot to take your birth control. Only a copper IUD can be used as emergency contraception. You need to make an appointment with your doctor or a gynecologist to obtain one.

How do I use an emergency IUD?

A doctor or a gynecologist must insert the morning-after IUD within seven days following unprotected sex. It has the same properties as a regular copper IUD. The morning-after IUD can be removed after your next period, or you can keep it in as a contraceptive method.

👍 Advantages

• It can be inserted up to seven days after unprotected sex, while the morning-after pill must be used within five days following unprotected sex.

👎 Disadvantages

• It is more complicated and less accessible than the morning-after pill.
• It does not protect you against sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs).
• The morning-after IUD is not covered by your provincial health insurance.

Sources: FQPN, S.O.S Grossesse [French only]