She Strengthens

The Morning-After Pill: Your Safety Net

Accidents happen, and when they do, it’s essential to have a plan. Enter Plan B, the morning-after pill that can provide peace of mind when you need it most.

How It Works

Conception occurs when an egg meets sperm. Plan B delays ovulation or prevents a fertilized egg from implanting into your uterus, thereby preventing pregnancy. It’s a single pill containing 1.5 milligrams of levonorgestrel, a type of progestin that works wonders in a pinch.

Bleeding and Side Effects

Some women experience light-to-moderate bleeding after taking Plan B, which can be unsettling. However, heavy bleeding is rare, and most women don’t bleed heavily. You may also experience cramps, sore breasts, nausea, and fatigue – all of which should subside within a few days.

Is There an Alternative?

Yes! Ella (ulipristal acetate) is another morning-after pill that prevents pregnancy if taken up to 5 days after sex. It’s 85% effective, doesn’t become less effective over time, and is more effective for women who weigh 155-195 pounds.

Dealing with Bleeding

If you do experience bleeding, be prepared with period products on hand. Your cycle should return to normal the following month. Remember, Plan B is not the abortion pill, and it won’t trigger an abortion or miscarriage.

How Often Can You Take It?

You can take Plan B whenever you need it, but it’s essential to remember that it’s not a regular birth control method. The more you take it, the more your cycle will be disrupted. Talk to your doctor about alternative birth control options if you’re relying on Plan B frequently.

Could I Be Pregnant?

If you’re experiencing spotting after taking Plan B, it’s not necessarily a sign that you’re not pregnant. Take a pregnancy test if your period is late, especially if you’ve taken Plan B. If you’re pregnant, it won’t harm the fetus.

The Side Effects of Plan B

In addition to an irregular period, you may experience cramps, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, sore breasts, and fatigue. These effects should disappear within a few days.

What If It Didn’t Work?

If Plan B doesn’t work, it may be due to various factors, including body size, vomiting within 2 hours of taking it, or already being pregnant. Consider an alternative like ella or the Paragard IUD if you have a BMI over 25 or weigh more than 165 pounds.

When to See a Doctor

Plan B is an over-the-counter medication, but it’s still essential to talk to your doctor beforehand if you have any questions or concerns. Certain medications may interact with Plan B, and your doctor can offer guidance on preventing STIs.

After Plan B

Most women don’t need to see a doctor after taking Plan B, but if you experience severe side effects, heavy bleeding, or think you’re pregnant, it’s time to call your doctor.

The Bottom Line

Plan B is a safety net, not a regular birth control method. If you find yourself in a sticky situation, stay calm, and head to the pharmacy. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.