What is a Morning After Pill?
A Morning After Pill is a form of emergency contraception that can be taken after unprotected sex or when regular contraception fails. Also known as Plan B or the emergency contraceptive pill, it contains a higher dose of hormones than regular birth control pills and works by preventing ovulation or fertilization of the egg.
The Morning After Pill is not effective as a regular form of contraception and should only be used in emergency situations. It is available over the counter at most pharmacies and can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex, although it is most effective if taken as soon as possible after intercourse.
Side effects may include nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness, but these are usually mild and go away quickly.
It is important to note that the Morning After Pill does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and should not be used as a substitute for regular contraception. It is always best to use protection to prevent unwanted pregnancies and STIs.
How does the Morning After Pill work?
Morning After Pill, also known as emergency contraception, is a type of birth control that is used to prevent unwanted pregnancies after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.
The pill works by delaying or preventing ovulation, the process by which the ovary releases an egg that can be fertilized by sperm. By delaying ovulation, the Morning After Pill reduces the chances of fertilization and implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus.
The Morning After Pill is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. It is recommended to take it within 72 hours, although some types can be taken up to 120 hours after unprotected sex.
There are two types of Morning After Pills: progestin-only pills and combined hormone pills. Progestin-only pills, also known as the “mini-pill,” contain a synthetic hormone called progestin that prevents pregnancy by thickening cervical mucus and inhibiting ovulation.
Combined hormone pills contain both progestin and estrogen and work in a similar way to regular birth control pills.
It is important to note that the Morning After Pill does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It also should not be used as a regular form of birth control, as it is less effective than other methods such as condoms or hormonal contraceptives. If you have concerns about your sexual health or contraception options, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for guidance and advice.
Can you get pregnant after taking morning pill?
Emergency contraceptives, commonly known as morning-after pills, work by preventing ovulation or fertilization or by preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective, and there is still a small chance of pregnancy even after taking a morning-after pill.
If you have taken a morning-after pill and have had unprotected sex since then, it is important to take a pregnancy test to be sure. It is also important to note that morning-after pills are not intended to be used as a regular form of birth control and should only be used in emergency situations.
If you are looking for a more reliable form of contraception, consider talking to your healthcare provider about other options that may be better suited to your needs.
