Levonorgestrel emergency contraception guide
When and how to take the single 1.5 mg dose, what can change the choice, and when to test or seek care.
Mode d'emploi
- 01
Étape 1
Take one 1.5 mg tablet as soon as possible
Take the single dose preferably within 12 hours and no later than 72 hours after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Do not delay while waiting for symptoms.
- 02
Étape 2
If you vomit within 3 hours
Another tablet is needed as soon as possible because the first may not have been absorbed. Ask a pharmacist or clinician promptly for a replacement.
Calendrier posologique
- 01
Étape 1
Before taking it
Tell the clinician or pharmacist if the period is already late, more than 72 hours have passed, there was another unprotected exposure this cycle, or you used enzyme-inducing medicines in the last 4 weeks. A copper IUD or a different plan may be more suitable.
- 02
Étape 2
After the dose
Use reliable barrier protection as advised for any further sex; this tablet does not protect later exposures or sexually transmitted infections. Continue or restart regular contraception according to professional advice.
Effets secondaires
Common short-term effects
Nausea, lower abdominal pain, tiredness, headache, dizziness, breast tenderness, diarrhoea, or vomiting can occur and usually settle.
Changes to the next period
The next period may come a few days early or late and bleeding may differ from usual. These changes do not confirm whether the tablet worked.
04 · Quand contacter votre médecin
Contactez votre médecin si
- Severe or one-sided lower abdominal pain, fainting, shoulder-tip pain, or heavy bleeding — seek urgent assessment
- The next period is more than about 5–7 days late, unusually light or heavy, or pregnancy symptoms occur — take a pregnancy test and seek advice
- There is another unprotected exposure after the dose or concern about an STI
Conservation
Keep in the original package, away from moisture and direct heat, and out of children's reach. Follow the temperature limit on your pack and do not use it after the expiry date.
À quoi s'attendre
Levonorgestrel delays or prevents ovulation and works best the sooner it is taken. It does not end an established pregnancy, does not guarantee pregnancy prevention, and does not provide ongoing contraception. Follow the testing and contraception plan given to you.