Emergency contraception (levonorgestrel) 1.5mg (EU)

Description

(levonorgestrel) 1.5mg Emergency contraception
How does Levonorgestrel work?
Levonorgestrel is a synthetic hormone and the active ingredient in this form of emergency contraception. It works to prevent pregnancy from two different angles – either by stopping the ovaries from ovulating or by stopping sperm fertilising an egg if it had already been released.
How effective is the morning after pill Levonorgestrel?
The earlier Levonorgestrel is taken after unprotected sex, the more likely it is to be effective. It should be taken within 72 hours (3 days), but it is thought that if taken within 24 hours it will prevent 95% of pregnancies, 48 hours it will prevent 85% of pregnancies and 58% within 72 hours.
You will need to take another Levonorgestrel if you are sick within three hours of taking the initial tablet.
Once you have taken Levonorgestrel it will not prevent further pregnancies if you have unprotected sex again. Between taking the tablet and your next period you should use condoms or your regular contraception.
Taking a double dose of Levonorgestrel:
The standard Levonorgestrel dose is 1.5 milligrams. But some women might have to take a double dose (3mg Levonorgestrel) . This can be because of your weight (if you’re over 70kg), or if you’re taking certain medications. You can find out more here.