The morning after pill is a form of emergency contraception for use after having unprotected intercourse for the prevention of pregnancy. As of December 2009, this pill is available over the counter to women ages 17 and above. Women age 16 and under require a prescription to obtain this drug. These pills are considered safe and effective by the FDA.
How does it work?
The pill is designed to be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex with a second dose following 12 hours later. This pill is not to be confused with Mifeprex, with causes termination during the first weeks of pregnancy. The morning after pill has hormones similar to those in birth control pills, but in significantly higher doses. Some brands contain levonorgestrel (progesterone) only, while others contain synthetic versions of both estrogen and progesterone. These drugs prevent the sperm from fertilizing the egg, and will also keep a fertilized egg from implanting within the uterus. The pills that contain estrogen will also inhibit ovulation. Common names are Plan B and Plan B One-Step.
Side Effects
Nausea and vomiting are the most common side effects while taking the morning after pill. Some women may take an anti-nausea medication prescribed by their doctors before taking the pill. Other side effects may include breast tenderness, headaches, dizziness and irregular bleeding. If this pill is taken frequently it may cause irregular menstrual periods. Most side effects are reported to go away within two days.
Effectiveness
According to the manufacturer, the pill is more than 80 percent effective in preventing an unwanted pregnancy. The sooner the pill is taken following intercourse, the more effective it will be. The pill is not intended for frequent use. It is important to understand that Plan B is not effective once the process of implantation occurs. It will not have an adverse affect on an existing pregnancy. Plan B is not intended to be used as a form of birth control. Women should contact their health care provider to discuss birth control options.
