Morning After Pill: Everything you need to know

Levonorgestrel, also known as the morning after pill, is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or in the event of a birth control mishap, such as a broken condom or forgotten pills. It is widely accessible over the counter at many local pharmacies. Morning after pill is a is a progesterone-based contraceptive.

How long does the morning after pill stay in the body?

The exact duration can vary based on individual factors such as metabolism, age, health condition, and other personal characteristics but in general, it takes from 5 to 7 days.

How many pills should I take?

The morning-after pill comes in a 1.5mg dose and should be taken within 72 hours of having intercourse. It works best when taken within the first 24 hours. Make sure to consult with your pharmacist to verify the right dosage.

Please note that the morning-after pill is subject to restrictions and can only be sold directly to the individual using it, not to someone else. The pharmacist dispensing it will need specific information, which will be kept confidential on a questionnaire. This procedure is in place to ensure proper guidance and accurate usage of the medication by the individual.

Morning-after Pill Precautions

• If vomiting occurs within three to four hours of taking morning after pill, take another dose immediately.
• Do not use morning after pill if you are or suspect you are pregnant.
• If you become pregnant despite using morning after pill, consult your doctor as there is a possibility of an ectopic pregnancy.
• Consult your doctor or pharmacist about whether you can use morning after pill if you are breastfeeding.
• Morning after pill should not be used as a regular contraceptive.
• It does not protect against HIV infection or other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
• Avoid alcohol after taking morning after pill

Avoid morning after pill if you have any of the following conditions:

• Stroke
• Breast cancer or genital tract tumors
• Blood clotting disorder
• Severe liver impairment or disease
• Vaginal bleeding
• Thromboembolism
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Arterial disease

Use morning after pill with caution and consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have:

• Liver impairment
• Kidney impairment
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Cardiovascular (heart) disease
• Epilepsy
• Migraine
• Asthma
• History of clinical depression
• Diabetes

What Drug Interactions Could You Experience?

To avoid adverse drug interactions, always inform your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking or planning to take.

What Are Levonorgestrel’s Side Effects?

Possible side effects include:

• Breast tenderness
• Changes in menstrual flow
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Fatigue
• Vomiting

This is not a complete list of side effects. Contact your doctor if you notice any severe or unusual symptoms.

What Are the Symptoms of an Overdose?

If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms may include:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Severe nausea
• Vomiting

Conclusion

It is important to consider the morning after pill as a last resort to prevent pregnancy. While it is safe, there are other options such as using condoms that do not have any significant impact on your body. Be sure to purchase from reputable pharmacies rather than buying from unknown sources on the streets.

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