How to use morning after pills to prevent pregnancy?

We’ve all been there. You had an amazing night with that special someone, but oops! The condom accidentally ripped or maybe you forgot to use one altogether. Fear not! Morning after pills are a safe and effective way of preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex.

But how do they work? And which ones should you use? Don’t worry, we’ve got all the answers for you right here.

What are Morning After Pills?

Morning after pills, also known as emergency contraception or “the morning after pill”, are a form of birth control that can be taken up to five days (120 hours) after unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy. They contain hormones like progestin and/or estrogen that either delay ovulation or make it difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize an egg.

It’s important to note that morning-after pills are NOT intended for regular use as contraception. They’re designed only for emergencies like when your primary method has failed – because accidents happen!

Types of Morning After Pills

There are two types of morning-after pills available over-the-counter: levonorgestrel-based pills (like Plan B One-Step) and ulipristal acetate (ella). Both options have their own unique benefits:

Levonorgestrel-Based Pills

These easy-to-find tablets are sold under brand names such as Plan B One-Step, Take Action, My Way, Next Choice One Dose ,and others. These typically come in single-dose packs containing one tablet each.

Levonorgestrel is a synthetic hormone similar in function to progesterone found naturally in your body responsible for thickening cervical mucus — making it almost impossible for sperm cells from getting near the uterus wall where implantation occurs.The levonorgestrel pill needs intake within three days/72 hours of having unprotected xex while some brands’ effectiveness extend longer, upto 120 hours.

Ulipristal Acetate (ella)

Ulipristal acetate is a newer morning-after pill sold under the brand name ella within 5 days of intercourse. However, it requires a prescription from your healthcare provider and may be more difficult to find in a hurry. It stops progesterone from working correctly which prevents ovulation.This product can work up to five days after unprotected sex.

How To Use Morning-After Pills

Now that you know what they are, let’s talk about how to properly take these pills:

Step One: Purchase Your Pill

Morning-after pills can typically be found at most pharmacies or even online! They’re often kept behind the counter and require no prescription if you’re purchasing levonorgestrel-based ones. If you choose ulipristal acetate type on your own,you need an appointment with your health-care provider.Generally available via planned parenthood clinics where bedsides providing birth control info and consultation ,you will also get one effective dose away.

Step Two: Read The Instructions Carefully!

Regardless of which pill you use,it’s crucially important thoroughly read and follow all instructions provided with the tablets/pills for consumption.Causes vary for pregnancy prevention like delayng egg release/ slowing sperm /preventing fertilisation.The directions on use differ slightly between each product, so make sure to familiarize yourself beforehand.A poorly taken emergency contraceptive might have severe side effects including wrong advice leading into unplanned pregnancies spotting/swelling/breast tenderness etc. It won’t effectively prevent pregnancy!

Step Three: Timing Is Key!

Timing matters when taking emergency contraceptives – the sooner you take them after unprotected xex, then chances of chance getting pregnant become lesser.. Doctors or pharmacists usually advise using ECPs as soon as possible but they still effective till seventy two hours.The Levonorgestrel pill is effective if taken within the first three days of unprotected sex, but Plan B One-Step can be used up to five days later. Ella, on the other hand, is also effective up to 120 hours (five days)as it delays pregnancy prolonging ovulation.

Step Four: Take The Required Dosage

Each brand of morning-after pills has their own unique price and instructions for usage.Make sure to take just the appropriate recommended dose of your chosen emergency contraceptive carefully as described in its manual or prescribed by medical professional. Pills are sometimes given at once while others two tablets with intervals between intakes; read through all materials thoroughly so you’re certain exactly what you need do.

Step Five :Consider a Follow-Up Visit

While not necessary,it’s wise to follow-up your general practitioner/secluded clinics after taking an ECP — particularly if you continue having pregnancy-related symptoms like bleeding during menstrual cycle. Discuss birth control options with them and gift yourself peace mind too.

Benefits Of Morning After Pill

Apart from preventing unwanted pregnancies , use plan b asap even has additional benefits:

1).Prevents STD transmission since sperm doesn’t fertilize that one egg cell lying empty.
2).Having ecp available will ensure stress-free casual sx most especially for folks who do not have daily routine contraceptive plans
3)Won’t Interfere with future attempts at conceiving kids -if any!

Typically safe,morning-after pills are excellent backup methods readily accessible when regular contraception fails or similar unplanned situations arise.Do well check-in regularly with your health-care professionals though,don’t commence self medication without adequate consultation..A small cautionary step can change many things!!