Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy and tolerability of two emergency contraception (EC) methods, levonorgestrel versus the Yuzpe. Methods: In a prospective, randomized, comparative study, we included 122 healthy volunteers who in the observed cycle had had only one act of unprotected intercourse within 72h of treatment. They were randomly allocated in levonorgestrol group (n=62) and Yuzpe (n=60). The levonorgestrel regimen consisted of two pills: 0.75 mg levonorgestrel, taken twice in the 12-h interval within 72h after unprotected intercourse. The Yuzpe method included two HD contraceptive pills taken as another regimen. Data were collected by questionnaire at first and 3 weeks later. The differences were compared with X-2&Fisher exact tests. Results: There were no significant differences between two groups in any of the observed parameters. The levonorgestrel regimen was found superior to Yuzpe because it's more effectiveness (respectively 100 vs 91, p=0.026) and fewer side effects. Conclusion: The study showed more effectiveness and safety of the levonorgestrel regimen as emergency contraception. Thus we recommend levonorgestrel as an alternative EC method instead of the Yuzpe regimen in Iran or other developing countries in order to decrease unwanted pregnancy.