Levonorgestrel is an emergency contraceptive used to help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, such as a missed pill or condom breakage. It works primarily by delaying or preventing ovulation and is most effective when taken as soon as possible after intercourse.

Benefits:

Helps prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex

Most effective when taken within 72 hours

Available as a single-dose treatment

Simple and convenient to use

Can be used following contraceptive failure or missed contraception

Potential Side Effects:

Nausea, headache, or fatigue

Temporary changes to the next menstrual period, including earlier, later, heavier, or lighter bleeding

Common Use:

Usually taken as a single 1.5mg dose as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse.

Can be effective up to 72 hours (3 days) after sex, though effectiveness decreases with time.

Note: Levonorgestrel is an emergency contraceptive and should not be used as a regular method of birth control. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).