What should you know about plan b emergency contraception?

Plan B is an emergency contraceptive tablet containing levonorgestrel, a progestogen. It works mainly by delaying or preventing ovulation; it does not end an established pregnancy and does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. It is intended for occasional emergency use, not as a replacement for an ongoing contraceptive method. It may cause nausea, headache, tiredness, breast tenderness, cramps, or a period that comes earlier, later, lighter, or heavier than expected.

Take the tablet as soon as possible after unprotected sex or a contraceptive failure, following the product instructions or advice from a pharmacist. If you vomit soon after taking it, contact a pharmacist or clinician because another dose may be needed. Use condoms or another reliable method for future sex because the tablet does not provide ongoing protection. Tell a clinician about medicines or herbal products you take, as some can reduce levonorgestrel’s effect. A pregnancy test can help if your next period is notably late or unusual.

Seek medical advice for severe lower abdominal pain, fainting, or a positive pregnancy test with pain or bleeding, because these symptoms need assessment for an ectopic pregnancy. Contact a clinician if vomiting prevents you keeping the tablet down or if your period remains unexpectedly absent. Emergency contraception does not shield against infection after sexual exposure.

Ask whether levonorgestrel is suitable with your medicines, when to test for pregnancy, when to restart or begin regular contraception, and which emergency option is appropriate if ovulation may already have occurred.