Bleeding after plan B: What does it mean?

Bleeding after Plan B

Plan B contains a synthetic version of a naturally occurring hormone that prevents ovulation. It does not result in an abortion. Some Plan B users experience light bleeding or spotting for up to a month after the procedure, which resolves on its own. Continue reading to learn more about Plan B, potential side effects, and what to do if this type of emergency contraception is ineffective.

Most Plan B patients do not experience bleeding, but it does occur. According to a 2006 study with 232 participants, 14.7% experienced bleeding between periods after using Plan B. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), heavier periods are relatively common after Plan B, occurring in up to 31% of people who have taken the drug.

However, even days or weeks later, a person should not expect to experience very heavy bleeding after using Plan B. Some people believe that Plan B frequently causes heavy bleeding. This is not correct. The misconception that Plan B causes abortion may be the source of the belief. Plan B, in fact, does not cause pregnancy loss or bleeding.

Plan B is the brand name for the generic drug levonorgestrel. This is one type of progestin, a synthetic version of the hormone progestogen, which the body produces naturally. Plan B is commonly referred to as the "morning-after pill." When it comes to penetrative sex and pregnancy, the chances are better if it happens right before or right after ovulation, when an ovary releases an egg.

Plan B, like other birth control pills, works by either preventing or delaying the release of an egg from the ovary. If ovulation occurs after taking Plan B, the drug may help reduce the likelihood of the egg implanting in the uterus and resulting in pregnancy.

Plan B entails taking a single pill immediately and a second pill 12 hours later. The two doses are the same — they both contain 0.75 milligrams. Levonorgestrel from a Reliable Source According to new research, taking the two pills together may be just as effective as taking them separately.

Plan B can work for up to 120 hours after unprotected sex, but prescribing guidelines generally recommend starting the dosage within 72 hours. The sooner a person takes the medication, the better it may work.

If Plan B fails, pregnancy may occur. Further options can be described by a healthcare provider, and it is best to consult with them as soon as possible. If a woman decides to keep her pregnancy, seeking advice as soon as possible can ensure that she receives the best prenatal care. If a woman decides to have an abortion, she may be required to take a different type of pill. This is referred to as a medical abortion by doctors. The abortion pill is effective for up to ten weeks after the woman's last period.

Laws vary by state, and a woman may be required to take the pill in the presence of a healthcare provider. A surgical abortion is another option. These typically occur during the first trimester — the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.