Plan B One-Step – Levonorgestrel: Emergency Contraception Explained
Plan B One-Step is an over-the-counter emergency contraceptive pill containing Levonorgestrel. It is designed to help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or birth control failure (such as a broken condom or missed pills). This single-dose tablet is most effective when taken as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours.
✅ How Plan B One-Step Works
Plan B One-Step contains 1.5 mg of Levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone similar to progesterone. It works mainly by:
- Delaying ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary)
- Preventing fertilization (stopping sperm from meeting the egg)
- Altering the uterine lining to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting
Note: Plan B does not terminate an existing pregnancy. It is not an abortion pill.
🌟 Key Benefits of Plan B One-Step
- Fast action: Works best within 72 hours of unprotected sex
- Over-the-counter: No prescription required
- One tablet only: Simple and convenient single-dose pill
- Safe for most women: Can be used regardless of age or weight, although efficacy may decrease with higher BMI
⚠️ When to Use Plan B One-Step
Use Plan B if:
- You had unprotected sex
- Your birth control method failed (e.g., condom broke, missed birth control pills)
- You were sexually assaulted and do not wish to become pregnant
🕒 Effectiveness Timeline
| Time After Sex | Effectiveness |
|---|---|
| Within 24 hours | ~95% |
| 24–48 hours | ~85% |
| 48–72 hours | ~58% |
The sooner it’s taken, the better the results.
🤒 Side Effects of Plan B
Most women experience mild and temporary side effects:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Breast tenderness
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Irregular bleeding or delayed period
If vomiting occurs within two hours of taking the pill, consult a healthcare provider—you may need to take another dose.
🚫 Who Should Not Take Plan B One-Step?
- Individuals allergic to Levonorgestrel
- Those already pregnant
- People with unexplained vaginal bleeding
🛒 Where to Buy Plan B One-Step
Available at most pharmacies, drugstores, and online without a prescription. Common stores include:
- CVS
- Walgreens
- Walmart
- Amazon (U.S. only)
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❓FAQs About Plan B One-Step
Q1: How soon should I take Plan B after unprotected sex?
A: As soon as possible. It works best within 24 hours, but is still effective up to 72 hours after sex.
Q2: Can Plan B fail?
A: Yes, no emergency contraceptive is 100% effective. It’s less effective if ovulation has already occurred or if your BMI is high.
Q3: Can I take Plan B more than once?
A: Yes, but it should not be used as a regular form of contraception. Frequent use may cause irregular periods.
Q4: Will Plan B affect my future fertility?
A: No, it has no long-term effects on fertility.
Q5: Can teenagers buy Plan B without a prescription?
A: Yes, anyone regardless of age can buy it over the counter in the U.S.
Q6: Does Plan B protect against STDs?
A: No, it only helps prevent pregnancy—not sexually transmitted diseases.
📚 Sources / Scientific References
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Emergency Contraception
- U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Plan B One-Step Label
- World Health Organization (WHO). Emergency Contraception Fact Sheet
- Mayo Clinic. Morning-after pill: Emergency birth control
- Planned Parenthood. How effective is Plan B?