Levonorgestrel emergency contraception guide
How to take levonorgestrel after unprotected sex, understanding timing, effectiveness, and the next period.
Levonorgestrel emergency contraception guide
How to take levonorgestrel after unprotected sex, understanding timing, effectiveness, and the next period.
- READ TIME
- 2 min read
- PATHWAY
- Levonorgestrel
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How to use
- Take one tablet as soon as possible within 72 hours
Swallow the 1.5 mg tablet whole with water as soon as possible and no later than 72 hours after unprotected sex. It does not end an existing pregnancy.
- If vomiting occurs within 3 hours
Contact a healthcare professional: another dose may be needed. Nausea is common but does not affect effectiveness.
Medicines and interactions to review. Enzyme-inducing medicines used in the last 4 weeks can change the safest option Current hormonal contraception, breastfeeding, and any emergency contraception already used this cycle must be reviewed If breastfeeding, avoid nursing for 8 hours after the dose
Treatment pathway
See the full decision pathway
Timing pathway
Up to 72 hours
Levonorgestrel or ulipristal may be considered after clinical checks. Earlier treatment is preferable, and a copper IUD is the most effective option.
73 to 120 hours
Ulipristal is the oral option in the protocol if suitable. Offer a copper IUD and review medicines, ovulation timing, weight, and contraception.
More than 120 hours or after ovulation
Do not use automatic oral treatment. Seek prompt clinical assessment for a copper IUD and pregnancy advice.
Dose schedule
- Single dose per episode
Only one dose needed. Unprotected sex later in the same cycle may need further advice.
- Next period
It should arrive around the expected date. If it is more than 5 days late, take a pregnancy test.
Side effects
Common temporary effects
Nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, dizziness, and breast tenderness can occur and are usually temporary.
Cycle changes
Next period may be lighter or heavier, earlier or later. Persistent spotting should be discussed.
Do not use if
- You are allergic to the medicine or an ingredient in the tablet
- More than 72 hours have passed, or an established pregnancy needs assessment
- Severe liver disease, malabsorption, or interacting medicines make oral treatment unsuitable until reviewed
If any item may apply, do not use the medicine until a clinician has reviewed it.
When to contact your doctor
- Vomiting within 3 hours of taking the tablet: another dose may be needed
- Next period more than 5 days late, or pregnancy-like symptoms
- Severe abdominal pain, especially on one side: rare ectopic pregnancy possible
Storage
Keep in the original package, away from moisture and direct heat, and out of children's reach. Follow the temperature limit on your pack and do not use it after the expiry date.
What to expect
Levonorgestrel reduces pregnancy risk when taken within 72 hours, but it does not prevent every pregnancy. If your next period is more than 5 days late, take a pregnancy test.
Sources
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