How Does Plan B Affect Your Body?
Even if you’re using protection, there’s always a chance that you could get pregnant. Perhaps you’re thinking about taking Plan B to avoid an unexpected pregnancy. It may seem like an easy fix, but it’s not foolproof, nor is it without its risks! It’s important to be aware of how Plan B could affect your body and what to do if it fails.
Today, we’re discussing Plan B—including how it works, the potential risks and side effects, and what to do if you still get pregnant after taking it. Keep reading to learn more!
How Does Plan B Work?
Plan B is a form of emergency contraception (also known as emergency birth control) that aims to lower the risk of pregnancy by preventing or delaying ovulation[1]. It’s important to know that Plan B (and all other forms of emergency contraception) should not be used in place of regular birth control[1]. It should also be noted that Plan B tends to be less effective for women who weigh 165 pounds or more[2].
Is Plan B an Abortion Pill? Can Plan B Cause Miscarriage?
While they seem similar, Plan B and the abortion pill aren’t considered the same things. The difference is that the goal of Plan B is to delay or prevent ovulation, while the abortion pill ends a pregnancy that has already begun[1].
That being said, Plan B can prevent a fertilized egg from implanting into the uterus in rare cases[3]. The embryo never has the chance to develop into a viable pregnancy and is eventually miscarried. In essence, this would be another form of abortion.
Does Plan B Have Side Effects?
It’s important to be aware of the potential side effects of Plan B so you can protect your health! Common side effects of Plan B include[1]:
Irregular periods
Dizziness
Headache
Fatigue
Cramps or abdominal pain
Nausea or vomiting
Breast tenderness
Allergic reaction to levonorgestrel (a hormone found in Plan B)
Can Plan B Cause Irregular Periods?
As mentioned above, Plan B can cause irregular periods, which can be alarming if you’re concerned about an unexpected pregnancy. You may experience a delayed period (up to a week), heavier bleeding during your next period, or bleeding between periods[1].
If you experience bleeding or spotting for longer than a week or severe lower abdominal pain three to five weeks after taking Plan B, contact your healthcare provider immediately. These symptoms can indicate that you became pregnant, or a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy occurred[1].
What to Do if Plan B Fails
If your period is delayed for more than three to four weeks after taking Plan B, it may be a sign that it failed[1]. The next step is to determine whether or not you’re pregnant. We understand how scary the idea of being pregnant is. You don’t have to take the next steps alone! Consider scheduling a free pregnancy test and free ultrasound at HPRC!
If your results come back positive, don’t panic. Our compassionate client advocates are here to help you explore all of your pregnancy options so that you can make an informed and empowered decision! We will do everything we can to equip you to confidently take your next steps!
Give us a call at (256) 533-3526 or schedule your appointment today!
Sources
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, June 3). Morning-after pill. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/morning-after-pill/about/pac-20394730#
Cleland, K., Raymond, E. G., Westley, E., & Trussell, J. (2014, December). Emergency contraception review: Evidence-based recommendations for clinicians. Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4216625/
Embryocidal Potential of Modern Contraceptives. AAPLOG. (2020, January 15). Retrieved from https://aaplog.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/FINAL-CO-7-Embryocidal-Potential-of-Modern-Contraception-1.20.20.pdf