If you’re sexually active, it’s important to have a plan for emergency contraception in case of an unexpected pregnancy. Plan B is a popular and effective option for preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. However, there are important things you need to know about drinking and Plan B.
Understanding Emergency Contraception: The Science Behind Plan B
Plan B is a type of emergency contraception that contains a high dose of the hormone levonorgestrel. This hormone works by preventing ovulation or the release of the egg from the ovaries, which means there’s no chance for fertilization and pregnancy. Plan B is designed to be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, ideally within 72 hours, but it can still be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after.
How Plan B Works to Prevent Pregnancy
Plan B primarily works by delaying ovulation. It thickens the cervical mucus, which makes it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. If ovulation has already occurred, Plan B may still be effective by preventing the fertilization of the egg or implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus. However, Plan B is not 100% effective and should not be used as a regular form of contraception. It should only be used in emergency situations.
The Difference Between Plan B and the Abortion Pill
It’s important to note that Plan B is not the same as the abortion pill, also known as RU-486 or mifepristone. The abortion pill is designed to end an existing pregnancy by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the pregnancy to continue. Plan B, on the other hand, is meant to prevent pregnancy from occurring in the first place.
How to Use Plan B
Plan B is available over-the-counter at most pharmacies and drugstores. It’s important to read and follow the instructions carefully. The pill should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, ideally within 72 hours, but it can still be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after. If you vomit within two hours of taking the pill, you should contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist, as you may need to take another dose. It’s also important to note that Plan B does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Post-Plan B: What to Do and What to Avoid
Foods and Medications to Avoid After Taking Plan B
After taking Plan B, it’s important to take care of your body and avoid certain foods and medications that can interfere with its effectiveness. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice, for example, can increase the levels of the hormone in your bloodstream and make it less effective. Certain antibiotics, like rifampin and rifabutin, can also reduce the effectiveness of Plan B. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about any other medications that may interfere with Plan B.
When to Resume Sexual Activity After Taking Plan B
It’s generally safe to resume sexual activity after taking Plan B as soon as you feel comfortable doing so. However, it’s important to keep in mind that Plan B does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so it’s still important to use protection like condoms to prevent STIs and further pregnancy prevention.
Other Emergency Contraceptive Options
If you have taken Plan B and are still concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, there are other emergency contraceptive options available. One option is the copper intrauterine device (IUD), which can be inserted up to five days after unprotected sex and is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. Another option is Ella, a prescription emergency contraceptive pill that can be taken up to five days after unprotected sex. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about which option is best for you.
Alcohol and Plan B: What You Need to Know
Can You Drink Alcohol While Taking Plan B?
Drinking alcohol in moderation is unlikely to affect the effectiveness of Plan B. However, heavy alcohol use can impair judgment and lead to unsafe sexual practices, which can increase your risk of pregnancy and STIs. If you do drink alcohol, remember to practice safe sex and take Plan B as directed.
The Risks of Drinking Alcohol While Taking Plan B
Aside from the increased risk of unprotected sex, heavy drinking while taking Plan B can also increase the risk of side effects like nausea and headaches. It’s important to stay hydrated and avoid excessive alcohol consumption when taking Plan B.
Will Alcohol Affect the Effectiveness of Plan B?
Studies have shown that moderate alcohol consumption is unlikely to affect the effectiveness of Plan B. However, heavy alcohol use can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb and metabolize the hormones in Plan B, which can reduce its effectiveness. It’s important to use Plan B as directed and avoid heavy alcohol consumption.
Other Factors That Can Affect Plan B’s Effectiveness
While alcohol consumption can impact the effectiveness of Plan B, there are other factors to consider as well. For example, if you are already pregnant, Plan B will not terminate the pregnancy. Additionally, certain medications, such as those used to treat epilepsy or HIV, can also interfere with Plan B’s effectiveness. It’s important to discuss any medications you are taking with your healthcare provider before taking Plan B.
What to Do If Plan B Fails
While Plan B is highly effective at preventing pregnancy when taken as directed, there is still a small chance that it may fail. If you have taken Plan B and experience symptoms of pregnancy, such as missed periods or nausea, it’s important to take a pregnancy test and speak with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on next steps and discuss other forms of contraception that may be more effective for you.
Common Side Effects of Plan B
Nausea, Headaches, and Other Possible Side Effects
Like any medication, Plan B can cause side effects in some people. The most common side effects are nausea, headaches, and fatigue. Some women may also experience cramping, dizziness, or breast tenderness. These side effects are usually mild and go away within a few days. If you experience severe or prolonged side effects, or if you think there’s a chance you may be pregnant, contact your doctor or healthcare provider.
How Long Do Side Effects Last?
Most side effects of Plan B will go away within a few days. If you experience prolonged or severe side effects, you should consult your doctor or healthcare provider. It’s also important to note that although side effects can be uncomfortable, they’re usually mild and temporary. The benefits of using Plan B to prevent an unintended pregnancy usually outweigh the risks.
Less Common Side Effects of Plan B
While most women who take Plan B experience only mild side effects, there are some less common side effects that can occur. These include changes in menstrual bleeding, such as heavier or lighter bleeding, spotting, or a delay in your period. Some women may also experience abdominal pain, diarrhea, or vomiting. If you experience any of these less common side effects, it’s important to speak with your doctor or healthcare provider.
Who Should Not Take Plan B?
While Plan B is generally safe and effective for most women, there are some women who should not take it. Women who are already pregnant should not take Plan B, as it will not terminate an existing pregnancy. Women who are allergic to any of the ingredients in Plan B should also avoid taking it. Additionally, women who have a history of blood clots, liver disease, or certain types of cancer may not be able to take Plan B. It’s important to discuss your medical history with your doctor or healthcare provider before taking Plan B.
Conclusion: What You Need to Know About Plan B
Plan B is a safe and effective form of emergency contraception that can help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It’s important to take Plan B as soon as possible after unprotected sex, ideally within 72 hours, but it can still be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after. While moderate alcohol consumption is unlikely to affect the effectiveness of Plan B, it’s important to avoid heavy alcohol use and practice safe sex to prevent STIs and further unintended pregnancy. Consult your doctor or healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about Plan B or your sexual health.
It’s important to note that Plan B does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you have had unprotected sex or suspect you may have an STI, it’s important to get tested and treated as soon as possible. Additionally, while Plan B is a safe and effective form of emergency contraception, it should not be used as a regular form of birth control. It’s important to discuss your options with your healthcare provider and find a regular form of birth control that works for you.
