Emergency contraception Systematic review of the literature

Introduction: Emergency contraception is an effective and safe solution for preventing unwanted pregnancies. Many methods of emergency contraception are used, which have different mechanisms of action and time frames. Objective: Providing information to healthcare professionals and decision-makers based on the literature data about the target populations of emergency contraception, evidence-based modern methods, their effectiveness, and practi-cal application for the purpose of reducing the incidence of unintended pregnancies. Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search in MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase and Scopus databases based on relevant keywords, for publications that were published between 1960 and 2023. Results: 23 clinical professional publications were selected that examined the effectiveness of oral and long-term us-able contraceptives as emergency contraceptives. Our research results were interpreted in terms of weight, breastfeed-ing, time elapsed since the intercourse and future contraceptive plans, which help to select the most appropriate emergency contraceptive for healthcare professionals. Conclusion: Based on the literature data, our systematic review provides assistance for choosing between the available oral levonorgestrel, ulipristal acetate, and intrauterine contraceptive devices available in Hungary based on effective-ness, target population, and accessibility. We support the healthcare governance in creating up-to-date professional guidelines to improve the availability of emergency contraception and, consequently, enhance reproductive health.