Hi,
The morning-after pill (levonorgesterol) only works within 72 hours of contraception. This is due to its
mechanism of inhibiting the action of progesterone and preventing the implantation of the fertilized egg in
the uterus.
If you have crossed the 72-hour period, you need to evaluate a few other facts. If you were in the middle of
your cycle, that is, between 12-17 days after starting your period, and you have regular menstrual cycles
(28-30 days), it is likely that there could be a pregnancy. If you had unprotected intercourse at a time other
than this ‘fertile’ period, it is unlikely that a pregnancy could occur.
If you miss your period, you have three options:
1. Take a pregnancy test and, if positive, approach your gynecologist for an MTPill. This is a mifepristone
tablet of 200 mg and three tablets taken in a single oral dose within 49 days of pregnancy will result in an
abortion. The use and administration will need to be supervised by a doctor in a clinic given the drug’s
potential to cause severe bleeding in some individuals.
2. If you wait longer than 2 months, you will need to have a medical termination of pregnancy done by
dilatation and curretage. This involves more invasive intervention as the contents of the uterus will be
scooped out under anesthesia.
3. Have the baby and give it up for adoption.
Do remember to use a condom next time. It will avoid a lot of stress and protect you from sexually transmitted
infections.
