Postinor 2 should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 12 hours but no later than 72 hours (3 days) after the event. It consists of two tablets:
- Take the first tablet immediately after unprotected sex, and
- Take the second tablet exactly 12 hours after the first one.
Delaying the first tablet is generally not recommended because the sooner you take it, the more effective it is in preventing pregnancy. However, to make sure the second tablet can be taken exactly 12 hours later at a convenient time (e.g., not during sleep hours), you might slightly adjust the first dose timing. The effectiveness decreases the longer you wait, with about 95% effectiveness if taken within 24 hours and about 58% if taken between 48 and 72 hours. It is not effective if taken more than 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. Also, Postinor 2 will not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
