You can take the morning after pill as often as needed in your lifetime, including multiple times within the same menstrual cycle. However, it is not recommended to use it regularly as a primary contraception method because it is less reliable than regular contraception and may cause menstrual cycle changes if taken frequently. If you need to use the morning after pill more than once within a short period (such as within 7 days), it is advised to take the same type of pill each time for better effectiveness. Frequent use of the morning after pill should prompt a discussion with a healthcare provider about more suitable, regular contraception options. The morning after pill works best when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex—within 3 days (72 hours) for levonorgestrel pills (Plan B) and up to 5 days (120 hours) for ulipristal acetate pills (Ella). If vomiting occurs shortly after taking it, another dose may be needed. In summary:
- No lifetime limit on usage.
- Can be taken multiple times, even in the same cycle.
- Not recommended as regular contraception.
- Use the same pill type if taken close together.
- Consult healthcare provider for frequent use and alternative contraception.
- Most effective when taken promptly after unprotected sex.
