At the pharmacy, we often get questions about how to prevent pregnancy. Sometimes, the information people hear can be confusing. If you’re having sex and want to avoid getting pregnant, the best way is to use a reliable form of birth control.
Why this matters
Some birth control methods work better than others. Some may also cause different side-effects, depending on the person. That’s why it’s important to find the method that’s best for you. No birth control is 100% effective, but it works better when used properly and regularly. The more you know, the better protected you’ll be. If you have questions, we can help you understand your options and how to use them the right way.
Emergency contraception: The morning-after pill
Sometimes things don’t go as planned – and that’s where emergency contraception comes in. The morning-after pill is a backup option for when the following occurs:
- You had unprotected sex
- You made a mistake using your regular birth control
If the above happens, come to the pharmacy as soon as possible, ideally the next day. The sooner you take the pill, the better it works. Not sure if you need it? Just ask a pharmacist; we are here to help.
Keep in mind that the morning-after pill is not meant for regular use due to the following reasons:
- It doesn’t work well if used the wrong way.
- It has a high dose of hormones, which can cause side effects.
- It becomes less effective if used too often.
- It costs more than regular birth control.
- It won’t work if you’re already pregnant.
- It doesn’t protect against STDs – only condoms can help protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Need help choosing birth control?
Picking the right method depends on your health, lifestyle, and what you feel comfortable with. If you’re unsure, come talk to a pharmacist or your doctor. We’re here to support you in making the best choice for your body and health. This is general advice. For personal questions about birth control or sexual health, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional.
This information is provided by the Pharmacist Association of Sint Maarten (PAS). PAS is dedicated to improving the quality of pharmaceutical care on the island. All pharmacies on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten are proud members of PAS.
