Levonorgestrel is an emergency contraceptive tablet used to prevent unwanted pregnancies after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure during sexual intercourse. Contraceptive failure may occur when a daily birth control pill is taken incorrectly, a condom isn’t used properly, or a condom breaks during sex. Levonorgestrel is also the active ingredient in some IUDs and the contraceptive arm implant

In the pill formulation, levonorgestrel should not be used in place of regular birth control or contraceptive measures. It is intended to be used as an emergency backup if other forms of birth control fail.

The levonorgestrel pill is widely available over the counter. It can be taken within 120 hours of unprotected sex, but is more effective the sooner is taken. It is important to note that levonorgestrel is strictly a form of contraception. It cannot terminate an existing pregnancy, or protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STIs).

Levonorgestrel is an emergency contraceptive used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure during intercourse. It should not be used in place of regular birth control.

Levonorgestrel tablets cannot terminate an existing pregnancy, nor will they provide any protection against sexually transmitted infections. It is strictly used as an emergency measure after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.

Levonorgestrel belongs to a classification of birth control medication known as progestins. Progestins contain a synthetic version of the naturally occurring hormone progesterone. Progesterone is produced by the ovaries and helps regulate the female reproductive system. Progestins release a strong dose of levonorgestrel into the body, to prevent ovulation (ovaries releasing an egg for fertilization) and thicken cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg. If a sperm is unable to reach an egg for fertilization, pregnancy is nearly impossible.

Levonorgestrel works more effectively the sooner you take it after intercourse. It is most effective within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure.

Levonorgestrel tablets are a form of emergency contraception, not a daily birth control pill. This means that you will become fertile again several days after taking them. Once the sex hormones released by levonorgestrel tablets start to dissipate, the reproductive system will go back to working normally. Because of this, you should not use these tablets as a substitute for routine contraception. It is also important to note that progestin medications work on the reproductive system of the body. They do not protect against sexually transmitted infections or diseases.

Levonorgestrel has been shown to cause some side effects. Talk to your health care provider if these adverse reactions do not go away within a few days.

Common side effects reported from levonorgestrel use include:

• Increased menstrual bleeding
  
• Nausea
  
• Headache
  
• Fatigue
  
• Abdominal pain
  
• Breast tenderness
  
• Changes in the menstrual cycle (delayed or late period)
  

If you experience severe abdominal pain several weeks after taking levonorgestrel, talk to a health care provider right away.

Drug interactions can increase your risk of serious side effects and can alter how emergency contraception works. Speak with your doctor about any other medication you are taking, including anti-HIV protease inhibitors, herbal products, antibiotics, and anticonvulsants to avoid adverse effects before taking levonorgestrel.

Be sure to let your doctor know if you are pregnant before taking levonorgestrel. Do not take levonorgestrel tablets if you are already pregnant.

Levonorgestrel is commonly supplied as an oral tablet. These are widely available over the counter. In most cases, a single dose is supplied. This dose should be taken as soon as possible, no more than 72 hours after intercourse.

Use this medication exactly as ordered by your doctor, or as directed by the packaging. Do not take more than one dose of levonorgestrel. This medication can be taken at any time during your menstrual cycle. It should not be used in place of regular birth control or contraceptive measures.

If you vomit within 2 hours of taking levonorgestrel, talk to a health care provider right away. Another tablet may be needed.

Levonorgestrel tablets are widely available over the counter. They are typically sold under the brand names Plan B, My Way, or Next Step.

If you have any questions about emergency contraception or are unsure if it is right for you, talk to a health care provider right away on Sesame to discuss your concerns. Sesame offers discreet and affordable online birth control consultation services with licensed health care providers. Book a video visit if you have any questions or concerns about emergency contraception.