Emergency contraception
The Yuzpe method: what it is, and why only a doctor should advise it
Quick answer
The Yuzpe method is an older form of emergency contraception that uses ordinary combined birth control pills in a specific regimen. The WHO says it is less effective and causes more nausea and vomiting than dedicated emergency pills. The right regimen depends on the brand, so only a doctor can advise it. A copper IUD within 5 days works far better.
Need emergency contraception now?
Contact Likhaan about a free copper IUD, Pulse Clinic Manila for an emergency consult, or book a teleconsult below. For adults 18 and over.
What the Yuzpe method is
The Yuzpe method is named after the doctor who described it. It uses ordinary combined pills, the kind with both an estrogen and a progestin, taken in a specific regimen soon after unprotected sex. It was widely used before dedicated emergency pills existed.
The WHO lists combined oral contraceptives as one emergency option, alongside dedicated emergency pills and the copper IUD. [src] In the Philippines, dedicated emergency pills have not been registered since 2001, which is why doctors here may advise this older method instead. [src]
How well it works
The WHO says the combined pill method is less effective than dedicated emergency pills. [src] Like all emergency pills, it works by delaying or preventing ovulation, so it works better the sooner it is used. It does not end an existing pregnancy and is not an abortion. [src]
It does not protect you from sex later in the same cycle. Use condoms until you start a regular method.
Side effects
The WHO notes that the combined pill method causes more side effects than dedicated emergency pills, mainly nausea and vomiting. [src] Other common effects are headache, breast tenderness and changes to your next period. [src] Spotting afterwards is common and does not confirm or rule out pregnancy. [src]
If you vomit soon after taking pills for emergency contraception, contact the doctor who advised you. Do not decide on your own to take more.
Why we do not publish doses
You will find Yuzpe doses on some brand sites, pharmacy blogs and forums. We have chosen not to publish them, for three reasons:
- It depends on the brand. Pill brands contain different amounts of hormone, and some packs include iron or inactive tablets that do nothing for emergency contraception. Getting this wrong means taking too little, or too much for nothing.
- Guessing is common. People online describe repeating it, doubling it, or not knowing whether a vomited dose counts. A doctor can sort this out quickly. [TODO: source: r/birthcontrol threads on Trust pills used as emergency contraception]
- It is not always the right choice. Depending on timing and your health, a doctor may recommend a copper IUD instead, or tell you combined pills are not suitable for you.
The more effective option: a copper IUD
A copper IUD inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex is more than 99% effective, according to the WHO, and keeps working as contraception for years. [src] Likhaan offers free IUDs. [src] At private clinics, an all-in copper IUD costs ₱10,000 to ₱20,000. Read the IUD guide.
Talk to a doctor today
Tell the doctor when you had sex, the first day of your last period, which pill brand you have (if any), and any health conditions. They will tell you what fits. Options are below, and our emergency contraception guide lists where to go. Afterwards, use the test timing tool to know when a pregnancy test is reliable.
Three legal routes
Talk to a doctor today
Emergency options in the Philippines need a doctor. Pick the route that suits you. For adults 18 and over.
Free at a health center
Barangay health centers, RHUs, DOH hospitals and Likhaan. Subject to supply.
See an OB-GYN in person
Clinic visit, prescription in hand. Bring it to any licensed pharmacy.
Online consult
A licensed doctor by video or chat. From ₱700 on some platforms.
Online consult options
For adults 18 and over. Fees are set by each provider and can change.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Yuzpe method effective?
It can lower the chance of pregnancy, but the WHO says it is less effective than dedicated emergency pills and causes more side effects. A copper IUD within 5 days is the most effective emergency option.
How many Trust pills for emergency contraception?
We do not publish doses. The right regimen depends on the exact hormones in the brand and on your situation, and mistakes are common. Talk to a doctor today, by teleconsult or at a clinic.
I vomited after taking pills for emergency contraception. What now?
Contact a doctor today. Vomiting can affect whether the pills were absorbed, and the doctor will tell you what to do next.
Ilang pills ng Trust ang iinumin para hindi mabuntis?
Hindi kami nagbibigay ng dose. Depende ito sa brand at sa sitwasyon mo, kaya doktor lang ang makakapagsabi. Kumausap ng doktor ngayon din.
This guide is for information. Talk to a doctor before starting, stopping or switching birth control.
Sources
- Emergency contraception (fact sheet), World Health Organization
- Medical providers say FDA should reconsider ban on emergency contraceptive pills, Malaya
- Birth control methods and where to get them, PhilSTAR Life, 25 Sep 2024
- Combined pill: risks and side effects, NHS