The most common type of tablet used to stop pregnancy after unprotected sex is the levonorgestrel pill.
Emergency Contraception
These tablets fall under the category of emergency contraception. It is important to understand how effective they are and when to take them for the best results.
- Levonorgestrel Pills: According to Cristin Hackel, a nurse practitioner at Nurx, "Levonorgestrel pills have been shown to be 89% effective if taken up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected intercourse." They continue to work for up to 120 hours (5 days), but their effectiveness decreases significantly.
Timing Matters
The sooner emergency contraception is taken, the more effective it is.
Important Note
Emergency contraception should not be used as a regular birth control method.
