Plan B, also known as the morning-after pill, is an emergency contraceptive used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or other contraceptive failures
. It contains the hormone levonorgestrel and works by stopping the release of an egg from the ovary, preventing sperm from fertilizing the egg, or blocking a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus
. The pill is available over-the-counter and is not intended for routine contraceptive use
. The morning-after pill is most effective when taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex
. It is a one-dose regimen, with a single pill containing 1.5 milligrams of levonorgestrel
. Some side effects of Plan B may include headache, upset stomach, dizziness, lightheadedness, and tender breasts
. If a person vomits within two hours of taking the pill, it will not work, and they should take it again
. There are other emergency contraceptive options available, such as Ella, which contains ulipristal acetate and is available only with a prescription
. IUDs, such as copper-coated IUDs, can also be used for emergency contraception, releasing copper ions that create a hostile environment for sperm, preventing them from reaching or fertilizing the eggs
. For individuals who weigh more than 195 pounds, IUDs are considered the most effective choice
. In cases where Ella or IUDs are not accessible, a double dose of Plan B may be an alternative
