Levonorgestrel

Levonorgestrel is a hormonal medication which is used in many birth control methods (sold under the brand names Plan B One-Step and Julie, among others). It is combined with an estrogen to make combination birth control pills. As an emergency birth control, it is useful within 72 hours of unprotected sex. 

The more time that has passed since sex, the less effective the medication becomes. It should be taken as soon as possible after sex to prevent pregnancy. The drug (Plan B) is less effective in more overweight people, and it will not work as well if the person weighs more than 165lbs (74.8kg). Note that other forms of birth control (like a Copper IUD or cervical implant) are still effective above this weight. Ella (birth control) is more suited for people above 195lbs. It can be taken even if the combined oral contraceptive pill can not. Levonorgestrel does not work after pregnancy (implantation) has happened.

Levonorgestrel works by preventing ovulation or fertilization from happening. It decreases the chances of pregnancy by 57–93%.

 Related pages 

 Ella (birth control)
 Condom

References

Category:Contraception
Category:Drugs
Category:Emergency contraception