Introduction
Plan B is a type of emergency contraception used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, failure of contraception, or sexual assault. It contains a high dose of progestin, a hormone that helps to prevent ovulation or fertilization. While it is essential to understand how to use the contraceptive, knowing if Plan B worked can be as crucial. The need to know if Plan B worked arises because of the uncertainty of contraceptive efficacy, which could put one in a difficult situation if the efforts fail. This article aims to provide an informative guideline on how to know if Plan B worked.
Discussing the effectiveness of Plan B
The effectiveness of Plan B has been established through scientific studies that show that it is 88% effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. The effectiveness decreases if taken later and could be as low as 31% when taken five days after sex. Furthermore, it is less effective in overweight women, who should use other forms of birth control. Being mindful of administration time and understanding how Plan B works can aid in increasing its effectiveness.
Signs to look for
The most apparent sign that Plan B has worked is a change in vaginal bleeding. After taking Plan B, you should expect changes in menstrual flow, such as lighter or heavier bleeding and spotting. Another reassuring sign is the onset of side effects. Typically, after taking Plan B, it is expected to experience cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. These symptoms indicate that the hormone has begun working in the body. Lastly, taking a negative pregnancy test after two weeks of sex is also a good indication that Plan B has worked.
How soon to take a pregnancy test
After taking Plan B, you need to wait at least two to three weeks before taking a pregnancy test as this enables ample time for the body to eliminate the fertilized egg. CVS and Walgreens offer pregnancy tests that are highly accurate when taken correctly. While it is normal to feel anxious and want to test for pregnancy before the recommended time frame, taking a test too early may yield false negative results, which can be misleading.
Exploring Plan B’s side effects
Plan B’s side effects can be mild or severe, depending on the body. Nausea, vomiting, headaches, menstrual changes, abdominal changes, and dizziness are some of the side effects. To reduce the effects, it is necessary to take the drug on a full stomach and stay hydrated. If the symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult a doctor. In most cases, the side effects have no bearing on the contraceptive’s efficacy.
Discussing risk factors
In some cases, Plan B may not work as efficiently, particularly in women who are overweight, or those who have liver disease. These individuals might require alternative forms of birth control. Additionally, if taken while ovulating, Plan B may not be as effective, and it is advisable to consider alternative forms of contraception.
Underlining what Plan B can’t do
The most common misconception is that Plan B can terminate an already existing pregnancy. This is not true, as it cannot terminate a pregnancy. Moreover, Plan B cannot protect against sexually transmitted infections. It is not a regular contraceptive and should only be used when necessary.
Addressing any lingering concerns or questions
Some of the lingering concerns or questions that people might have include the timing of administration, effectiveness, and symptoms. It is crucial to understand the instructions and take Plan B as soon as possible. The contraceptive is more effective when taken earlier than later. At the same time, signs of effectiveness, such as vaginal bleeding changes, symptoms, or negative pregnancy tests, are good indicators that the hormone is working as intended. You can contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have prolonged symptoms or concerns about the efficacy of Plan B.
Conclusion
Knowing if Plan B worked is essential, and it should not be taken lightly. While several signs indicate the effectiveness of the contraceptive, it is necessary to keep in mind that it is not a guarantee. Understanding the timing of administration, signs of effectiveness, and risks should inform the decision to use Plan B and help avoid unwanted pregnancy.
