Plan B is an emergency contraceptive pill taken after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure to help prevent pregnancy. It contains levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that works primarily by temporarily delaying or stopping ovulation-the release of an egg from the ovary-so there is no egg available for fertilization by sperm
. Key points about Plan B:
- It must be taken within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex, and the sooner it is taken, the more effective it is
- It is a backup method of birth control, not intended for regular use
- Plan B will not terminate an existing pregnancy and does not affect implantation if fertilization has already occurred
- It does not impact future fertility; it only temporarily delays ovulation
- Plan B is available over-the-counter without a prescription in many places
- It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
In summary, Plan B acts as a post-coital contraceptive by preventing or delaying ovulation to reduce the chance of pregnancy after unprotected sex or birth control failure
