If you’ve already taken this medication after unprotected sex, there is a higher likelihood that you may find yourself in the need for it again. But is Plan B safe to take multiple times? Here’s what you should know before seeking emergency contraception.
What is Plan B?
Preventing unwanted pregnancy is a crucial aspect of reproductive health, which is why many people use contraceptives beforehand. But, that isn’t always possible, and/or contraceptive methods can fail.
Plan B is not the same thing as the abortion pill. Also referred to as the morning-after pill, Plan B can help prevent unwanted pregnancy when taken appropriately after a condom breaks, you’ve had unprotected sex, or other circumstances arise. It
This emergency contraceptive works like a high-dose birth control. Levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that helps prevent the release of an egg, inhibit the fertilization process, or prevent implantation of a fertilized egg, is the active ingredient.
To be effective, it must be taken within five days of unprotected sex, and the first 72 hours are when it is the most effective. Since its effectiveness decreases over time, you should take it as soon as possible.
How Effective is This Emergency Contraceptive?
We all know that nothing other than abstinence is 100% effective. But you can rest assured that plenty of methods are 97% to 99+% effective when used regularly.
Regarding Plan B, this option helps reduce your pregnancy risk by 75% in the first five days. When used in the first 24 hours, it is up to 95% effective.
Is Plan B Safe to Take Multiple Times?
Here’s what you should know if you’ve taken Plan B before. It is not meant to replace ongoing contraceptive use and should not be a replacement for other birth control methods.
However, yes, Plan B is safe to use more than once when necessary, though it’s only recommended for occasional use. This is because it can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, and it’s not the most effective way to prevent pregnancy.
Ultimately, when it comes to the answer to your question, “Is Plan B safe to take multiple times,” yes. You should be sure to speak with a women’s healthcare specialist for long-term contraceptives.
What Happens if You Take Plan B and Are Already Pregnant?
As mentioned above, it is not the same thing as the abortion pill. You should know that Plan B does not terminate an existing pregnancy or harm a developing fetus if you are already pregnant.
If you do experience an unplanned pregnancy after Plan B, you need to learn more about your options for terminating a pregnancy if that is what you decide to do.
How Do I Know if It Didn’t Work?
There isn’t necessarily a way to determine whether it worked right away.
You will tell over time if Plan B failed by symptoms such as a missed period and other pregnancy signs including fatigue, nausea, and breast tenderness. You can also take a pregnancy test and / or schedule an appointment with your gynecologist if you’re concerned that it may not have worked.
For All Your Reproductive Health Needs, Turn to Metropolitan Medical Associates
If you have concerns about preventing unwanted pregnancy or need guidance on emergency contraception, turn to Metropolitan Medical Associates for personalized care and support.
We help women understand their contraceptive options to make the best choices for each one’s lifestyle, budget, and other individual needs.
Call us today at 800-932-0378 to book a visit, or request an appointment online by filling out the form below, and feel empowered to take control of your reproductive health!
