Plan B, a form of levonorgestrel emergency contraception, serves as a backup method to help prevent pregnancy following unprotected sexual intercourse or when a primary birth control method has failed. It is intended for occasional use and is not a substitute for regular contraception. The medication works by intervening before a pregnancy begins, a crucial option for preventing unintended pregnancy.
How It Works and Immediate Physical Changes
Plan B primarily works by temporarily delaying or preventing ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary. If an egg is not released, fertilization cannot occur, preventing pregnancy. This occurs before a fertilized egg might implant in the uterus. Understand that Plan B does not terminate an existing pregnancy and is not an abortion pill.
After taking Plan B, individuals may experience temporary side effects. Common effects include nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and breast tenderness. Some may also experience spotting or irregular bleeding. These side effects are mild and usually subside within one to two days.
Anticipating Your Next Menstrual Cycle
Plan B can influence the timing and characteristics of the next menstrual period due to the high dose of synthetic hormones it contains. The next period might arrive earlier or later than anticipated, often within two days to one week of its predicted start date.
The flow and duration of the period may also vary; it might be heavier, lighter, or include spotting. These changes result from the temporary hormonal imbalance caused by the medication. While the first period after taking Plan B may be irregular, the menstrual cycle usually returns to its pattern the following month.
When to Seek Professional Medical Guidance
Seek medical guidance in specific situations after taking Plan B. If your menstrual period is delayed by more than one week, take a pregnancy test to confirm effectiveness. A healthcare provider can discuss next steps if pregnancy is suspected.
Severe abdominal pain, particularly three to five weeks after taking Plan B, warrants immediate medical attention. This pain could be a warning sign of an ectopic pregnancy, a serious condition where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. If vomiting occurs within two hours of taking the pill, contact a healthcare professional; another dose might be necessary. Also discuss ongoing birth control options and sexually transmitted infection prevention with a healthcare provider.