When do i need to take plan b?

Missing a dose of birth control can result in an unplanned pregnancy, and while there are various methods available to prevent pregnancy, sometimes they fail. That’s where emergency contraception comes into the picture. One of the popular types is Plan B or the morning-after pill. But when should you take it? Read on to find out!

Understanding The Emergency Contraception Method

Emergency contraception is a method used after unprotected sex to reduce your chance of getting pregnant. It works by delaying ovulation or preventing fertilization from occurring altogether.

Plan B contains levonorgestrel, which is a synthetic hormone found in many birth control pills but in higher amounts (due to which its effectiveness as an EC varies). Taking this medication within 72 hours (3 days) reduces your chances of becoming pregnant by up to 89%. However, taking the medication sooner increases its efficacy.

Misconceptions About Emergency Contraception

There are several misconceptions surrounding emergency contraception that need debunking:

  • EC vs Abortion: Taking emergency contraceptives will not abort an existing pregnancy. They work only before conception occurs.
  • Increased Use Causes Infertility: There is no evidence suggesting using EC repeatedly causes infertility or hormonal problems.
  • Only Available With Prescription: Some forms of EC require prescriptions, but most pharmacies offer over-the-counter purchases with proof of age.

Now that we’ve cleared up these myths let’s move on to understanding when exactly one needs it.

Instances Where You Need Plan B

Missed Pill/ Device Failure

While regular use assures efficiency in preventing unwanted pregnancies, occasional missed pills can lead one down the road towards unprotected intercourse resulting in unintended consequences. Unplanned device failure also contributes to such situations; if any mechanical form becomes misplaced/falls oute.g IUDs,IUSs prophylactic implants etc: requirements for immediate action can arise.

Sexual Assault

Without a doubt, sexual assault is a traumatic event for the survivor. Seeking medical attention and guidance can make all the difference in caring for yourself. It can reduce chances of pregnancies occurring through rape crisis protocols that include medication amongst other counseling options available by reaching out to organizations such as RAINN (The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)

Birth Control Delays

Delay or inconsistency with menstruation may sometimes lead us to miss detailed timings (like being unaware of an upcoming vacation/trip) causing disruptions or medication failures if travelling abroad this could affect obtaining birth control. Condoms too might fail despite correct usage making emergency contraceptives useful under potential risks

Taking Plan B After Unprotected Sex

Suppose you’ve had unprotected sex without any form of contraception; it’s essential to take EC immediately or within 72 hours to increase your ability against unwanted pregnancies.
Please note: Emergency contraception does not prevent STI contraction so taking relevant tests when public health permits is necessary!

Here are some factors that determine its efficacy:

  • Time lapse: The sooner you take Plan B, the more effective it will be. It’s important not to waste time thinking/waiting things out before considering precautionary measures
  • Body Weight: Research indicates that levonorgestrel becomes less effective among people over 165lbs/73kg(body weight). Informs seeking alternative solutions should visit their doctor for guidance on discovering viable options until results become obtainable
  • Medications’ Effects: interactions with other drugs can impact levonorgestrel effectiveness,
    asBarbiturates Phenytoin Carbamazepine Rifampicin St John’s wortcan lower PlanB’s effectiveness.On occasion of having consumed any relative medications,it is advisable reaching out first healthcare provider enhancing safest possible outcome hereafter.

How To Take Plan B

Plan B is an emergency birth control pill meant to be taken once, as soon as possible after unprotected sex. Here’s how to take it:

  1. Purchase Plan B from a pharmacy or retail store.
  2. Take one of the two pills included in the package immediately after obtaining them.
  3. Take the second pill 12 hours later.

It’s important not to wait too long before starting the dose since timing plays a crucial role in its efficacy.

Side Effects To Expect

Like every drug, Plan B has side effects that include:
Nausea and vomiting
Headache
Fatigue/Dizziness
These symptoms should subdue within 1-2 days; if such conditions last longer consulting with your doctor for advice is strongly recommended whereafter symptoms persisting indicate visiting urgent care/reaching out professionals is necessary.

When You Don’t Need Emergency Contraception

It can create moments of confusion understanding some common scenarios where taking plan b may not be needed:

  • Using Other Birth Control: If you’re using contraception like IUDs or have used fallback plans beforehand (such as condoms) effectively increasing effectiveness rules out unwanted pregnancy probability completely enough no need requires being met which subsequently increases Safe Sexual Health practices first and foremost always!
  • Past EC Usage During A Particular Menstrual Cycle: Women who’ve previously sought medication’s assistance with their menstrual cycle don’t specifically require another round when certain criteria met here follow-ups healthcare provider on this particular relevance enhances more comprehensive safe options during these instances.

In conclusion, emergency contraceptives are useful but only under particular circumstances/using medical protocol firmly takes priority! It’s better seeking professional guidance by reaching out for relevant resources provided gaining available knowledge allowing individuals make informed choices enhancing healthy living overall past experiences arming us valuable lessons towards future preparedness -hopefully-, avoiding potential unexpected outcomes along our journey called life!

Stay Safe And Be Protected Always!

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