All you need to know about Postinor-2 (Emergency Contraceptive)/Morning-after pill
Due to numerous questions and misconceptions about the action and usage of Postinor-2, a popular contraceptive in Nigeria, we have decided to put up this little summary about the drug.
Postinor-2 is a popular emergency contraceptive containing Levonorgestrel. It is also known as the “Morning-after-Pill” which describes its role as an emergency contraceptive taken by ladies after a one-night stand.
It is meant to be taken by ladies who had unprotected sexual intercourse or those who had sex and there is doubt on if the condom slipped or tore.
It is meant to be taken within 72 hours (3 days) from when you had the sex.
Does Postinor-2 Always Work to Prevent Pregnancy?
There have been proofs that support that Postinor-2 would prevent 95% of Pregnancies if taken within the first 24 hours (1 day) after sex. The chances decrease as the day progress. We can not say if Postinor-2 would be effective if taken after 72 hours.
Does Postinor-2 Prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)?
Know that Postinor-2 would not protect you against Sexually transmitted infections and diseases. So, those persons taking it for this purpose should stop it.
Who Should Not Take Postinor-2?
Do not take Postinor-2
- if you are already pregnant. It does not remove the pregnancy. It is not used for abortion.
- if it has passed 72 hours since you had unprotected sex. It might not be effective.
- you have breast cancer or see any form of vaginal bleeding.
After taking Postinor-2, always use a condom anytime you want to have sex until you see your next period.
How is Postinor-2 Taken?
Postinor-2 usually contains two (2) tablets containing 75mg of Levonorgestrel. You should take the first tablet as soon as possible after unprotected sex which you are afraid of. The sooner it is taken, the more effective it is in preventing you from getting pregnant.
Then, after 12 hours of taking the first one, you should take the second tablet. That is, if you took the first one by 9 pm, you should take the 2nd one by 9 am the following day hence you need to think about the time of taking the next tablet when you want to take the first one so that it would not be inconvenient.
If you vomit within an hour after taking any of the tablets, you might need to purchase another one, as the tablet might not have been absorbed.
Side-Effects Of Postinor-2
Just like every other drug, Postinor-2 has its own observed side effects. Common side effects of Postinor-2 are tiredness, vomiting, stomach pain, and dizziness. Some persons experience headaches, tender breasts, or increased vaginal bleeding.
If your period does not come for 3 weeks after taking Postinor-2, you should see your doctor immediately as you might be pregnant.
How Much Is Postinor-2?
The cost/price of Postinor-2 is N500 per pack. Each pack contains 2 tablets. You should check for the price in your area.
If you have any more questions, you can ask them below using the comment box.