Description

Back-up pill, commonly known as the morning after pill, is used only as an emergency contraceptive. It is used to prevent pregnancy when taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected intercourse. It is not used as a regular, long-term method of contraception.

Back up contains levonorgestrel that works by stopping the release of an egg from the ovary. Additionally, levonorgestrel also may prevent fertilization of an egg (the uniting of the sperm with the egg) or prevent the attachment (implantation) of a fertilized egg to the uterus (womb). For this reason it might not be very effective during ovulation as the egg has already been released from the ovary.

How to use: Emergency contraception pills should be taken as soon as possible and not more than 72 hours after unprotected sex or when birth control fails. 95% of unexpected pregnancies will be prevented if taken within the first 24 hours, declining to 58% if taken between 48 hours and 72 hours after unprotected intercourse.

Note:

• Emergency contraception pills do not work in women who are already pregnant and should not be taken during pregnancy.
• Levonorgestrel is thought to enter breast milk after oral administration and should be used cautiously in breastfeeding mothers.
• Drugs and herbal products that increase the activity certain liver enzymes that breakdown drugs may reduce blood levels of levonorgestrel and the effectiveness of the morning after pill.