Use
Emergency contraception is a method of preventing pregnancy to be
used after a contraceptive fails or after unprotected sex. It is
not for routine use. Plan-B is a birth-control
pill used to prevent pregnancy and
not RU-486 (abortion pill); it will not work if you are already
pregnant. Plan B does not protect against
HIV infection or other sexually transmitted diseases.
Plan
B is in the form of two levonorgestrel pills (0.75 mg in each
pill) that are taken by mouth after unprotected sex. Levonorgestrel
is a synthetic hormone used in birth control pills for over 35 years.
The first tablet should be taken orally as soon as possible within
72 hours (three days) of unprotected intercourse. The second tablet
must be taken 12 hours later.
Although
emergency contraception offers safe, effective backup protection,
it should never take the place of a regular method of birth control.
There are more effective methods of birth control that should be
used on a regular basis to prevent pregnancy.
Side
Effects
There have been no serious complications associated with Plan
B. You may experience non-serious side effects such as nausea,
abdominal pain, tiredness, headache, dizziness, or breast tenderness.
These are similar to the side effects you may experience on regular
birth control pills.
Some
women may also have menstrual changes after taking Plan B;
you may experience spotting or bleeding before your next period
Or your next period might be heavier or lighter, earlier or later.
Most women will have their next menstrual period at the expected
time or within 1 week of the expected time. If your menstrual period
is delayed beyond 1 week, you may be pregnant and should follow
up with your healthcare professional.
Precautions
Although Plan B is safe and effective, it is not right for
every woman. Do not use Plan B if you are already pregnant,
because Plan B will not work. If you are allergic to levonorgestrel
or any of the ingredients in Plan B or if you have abnormal
vaginal bleeding, then Plan B might not be right for you.
Plan
B passes into breast milk. Do not take this medicine without
first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
