What is the Yuzpe method of post-coital contraception?
This is named after the Canadian gynaecologist who first described it. Four tablets of PC4 (post-coital 4 tablets) are prescribed. Each tablet contains ethinyloestradiol 50mg and 250mg levonorgestrel (or Ovran see Table 16.1). Two tablets are taken immediately and the other two tablets 12 hours later. Nausea occurs in about 25% of cases. There may be a little bleeding two or three days after the treatment. Usually, your doctor will wish to review the situation just after your next period is due.
The term morning after pill is inappropriate and misleading as it suggests that the method must be initiated within a few hours of unprotected intercourse. The treatment should be commenced within 72 hours of a single episode of unprotected intercourse. It is less effective if taken later. Sadly many unwanted pregnancies have occurred because the women concerned had assumed that they were too late to use a morning after pill.
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This is the personal website of David A Viniker MD FRCOG, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Whipps Cross University Hospital, London - Specialist Interests - Reproductive Medicine including Infertility, PCOS, PMS, Menopause and HRT.
I do hope that you find the answers to your women's health questions in the patient information and medical advice provided.
