Note: The following article contains information about emergency contraception and may not be suitable for all readers.
Introduction
Emergency contraception, also known as the "morning-after pill," is a form of birth control that can be used after unprotected sex to prevent unplanned pregnancy. This can be a lifesaving option for many women who may have forgotten to use contraception or experienced a contraceptive failure. Dischem, a South African pharmacy chain, offers a range of emergency contraception options. In this article, we will explore how much morning after pills cost at Dischem and what options are available.
Types of Morning After Pills at Dischem
Dischem sells two main types of morning after pills: Levonorgestrel and Ulipristal acetate. Levonorgestrel is the most common and affordable option, while Ulipristal acetate is more expensive and requires a prescription.
Levonorgestrel (Plan B)
Levonorgestrel is a progestin-only pill that can be taken up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. The pill works by delaying or preventing ovulation, thinning the lining of the uterus, and thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg.
The cost of Levonorgestrel at Dischem ranges from R45 ($2.95) to R140 ($9.20), depending on the brand and dosage. The most popular brands are:
- Trust (R45 to R75)
- Plan B (R85 to R140)
- Escapelle (R129 to R140)
Ulipristal acetate (EllaOne)
Ulipristal acetate is a selective progesterone receptor modulator that can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. Unlike Levonorgestrel, Ulipristal acetate requires a prescription from a healthcare provider.
The cost of Ulipristal acetate at Dischem is around R500 ($32.80) per pill. This makes it a more expensive option than Levonorgestrel, but it may be a suitable option for women who cannot take progestin-only pills or have a higher risk of pregnancy.
How to Get Morning After Pills at Dischem
Getting morning after pills at Dischem is relatively easy. Anyone can walk into a Dischem pharmacy and purchase Levonorgestrel without a prescription. However, Ulipristal acetate requires a prescription from a healthcare provider, so women will need to see a doctor or nurse to obtain it.
It is also important to note that emergency contraception is not a regular form of birth control and should not be used as such. Women should speak to their healthcare provider about long-term contraceptive options to prevent unplanned pregnancy.
Conclusion
Dischem offers a range of emergency contraception options, including Levonorgestrel and Ulipristal acetate. Levonorgestrel is the most affordable and commonly used option, while Ulipristal acetate is more expensive but may be a suitable option for some women. Women can purchase Levonorgestrel without a prescription, but will need to see a healthcare provider to obtain Ulipristal acetate. Emergency contraception should not be used as a regular form of birth control and women should speak to their healthcare provider about long-term contraceptive options.
