What Does the Morning After Pill Do?

The Morning After Pill, otherwise known as emergency contraception, prevents pregnancy by delaying ovulation with the same hormones as regular birth control pills, but in a much higher dosage. Delaying ovulation inhibits the ability of your ovaries to release an egg, meaning that fertilization and pregnancy cannot occur. If ovulation has already taken place or if too much time has passed since intercourse (over 72 hours), data suggests that the morning after pill is unlikely to be effective.

Taking the Morning after Pill as Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception should be taken within 72 hours of sexual intercourse. It is taken in two doses; the first dose is taken immediately and the second 12 hours later. The morning after pill is still effective even if you are already taking birth control pills and miss a dose. However, the Morning After Pill is not intended to be a primary form of birth control and should only be taken as a back up or in case of ‘emergency’ as indicated by the name.
It is important to note that the morning after pill does not terminate established pregnancies and is not a form of abortion.

 The Effectiveness of Emergency Contraception

The effectiveness of the Morning After Pill is relative to when it is taken, and has a higher rate of preventing pregnancy the sooner it is taken For instance, Plan B One Step is 95 percent effective when taken within 24 hours of sexual intercourse – but this number dips to 89 percent after 72 hours have passed.
Additionally, some medications may cause side effects if taken with the morning after pill, and St. John’s Wort, barbiturates, and other substances can decrease its effectiveness.

Keep in Mind

If you think you need emergency contraception or you want to learn more, schedule an appointment with Metropong Gynecology by calling 0769584809 or filling out a contact form.

Side effects from the morning after pill will normally only last a few days and you may not experience any of them. Every woman is different and will have varying reactions, but most are resolved within 24 hours.
Learn more about other forms of contraception offered at Metropong Gynecology including:
•    The birth control pill
•    Diaphragm
•    IUD
•    Emergency Contraception – Morning After Pill.