postcoital contraception

prevention of pregnancy after intercourse has taken place. This can be achieved by three methods, which aim to prevent implantation of the fertilized ovum in the uterus: (1) the Yuzpe method, which consists of two spaced oral doses of ethinylestradiol combined with levonorgestrel (Schering PC4) taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse; (2) two spaced oral doses of levonorgestrel (Levonelle) taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse; and (3) insertion of an IUCD within five days of unprotected intercourse.