Levonorgestrel: What You Need to Know About the Morning‑After Pill

If you’ve ever wondered what to do after unprotected sex or a contraceptive mishap, levonorgestrel is probably the first name you’ve heard. It’s the active ingredient in many over‑the‑counter “morning‑after” pills and works fast to prevent an unwanted pregnancy. Below, we break down how it works, when it’s most effective, and what to watch out for, so you can make an informed choice in a pinch.

How Levonorgestrel Works

Levonorgestrel is a synthetic hormone that mimics progesterone. When you take it within 72 hours of intercourse, it stops the ovary from releasing an egg (ovulation) or makes it harder for sperm to reach a fertilized egg. It does not terminate an existing pregnancy, so it’s only useful before implantation occurs. The sooner you take it, the better – a dose taken within 12 hours can reduce pregnancy risk by up to 95 %.

The standard dose is 1.5 mg in a single tablet, though some brands split it into two 0.75 mg tablets taken 12 hours apart. Both approaches give the same hormone exposure, so pick what feels easiest for you. If you’re on other hormonal birth control, levonorgestrel won’t interfere with it; you can keep using your regular method after the emergency pill.

Tips for Safe Use

Buy the pill from a reputable pharmacy or health‑care provider – avoid sketchy online sellers. Check the expiration date; a stale tablet may lose potency. If you vomit within two hours of taking the pill, you should take another dose because the medicine might not have been absorbed.

Side effects are usually mild: you might feel nausea, a slight headache, or slight spotting. These usually disappear in a day or two. If you experience severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, or allergic reactions (rash, swelling), seek medical help right away.

Levonorgestrel can interact with some medicines, such as certain anticonvulsants, rifampin, and St. John’s wort. These drugs can lower the effectiveness of emergency contraception, so if you’re on any of them, consider a copper IUD as a backup, which works up to five days after sex.

Remember, levonorgestrel is not a regular birth‑control method. It’s meant for emergencies only. For ongoing protection, discuss options like pills, patches, rings, or long‑acting devices with your provider.

Finally, keep your emergency pill in a place you’ll remember – a bathroom drawer, a travel bag, or a friend’s house. Knowing it’s there can reduce panic in a stressful moment and ensure you act quickly.

In short, levonorgestrel offers a reliable, fast‑acting safety net when you need it most. By understanding how it works, when to take it, and what to expect, you can use it confidently and safely. Keep this guide handy, and you’ll be better prepared for any unexpected situation.