"Mini Pill"
A single, progestin-only pill is taken every day. These pills work by reducing and thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg. They also keep the uterine lining from thickening, which prevents a fertilized egg from implanting. They are not as effective in preventing pregnancy as combination pills and must be taken exactly on time, everyday.

However, the progestin-only pill may be an option if you want to use oral contraception, but you're breast-feeding or experience uncomfortable side effects from estrogen, such as headaches.

The main side effect from mini-pills is menstrual irregularity; you may not have any bleeding for months or you may have some spotting between periods.

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Emergency Contraception
Commonly called "the morning after pill," emergency contraception pills are used after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. To be the most effective, the pills should be started as soon as possible after up to 72 hours after unprotected intercourse, although some data suggests it may be effective up to 120 hours. Following the first dose of medication, a second dose must be taken within 12 hours.

Side effects and risks
Emergency contraceptive pills should not be used regularly as birth control because they can disrupt your menstrual cycle. They are also not 100 percent effective and can cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting, headaches, breast tenderness, dizziness and bloating. Emergency contraceptive pills that contain only progestin cause fewer side effects.