When working with levonorgestrel, a synthetic progestin used in many contraceptive products. Also known as Plan B, it stops pregnancy by blocking ovulation and preventing fertilization.
One of the most common ways people encounter levonorgestrel is through Emergency contraception, a set of methods taken after sex to lower the chance of pregnancy. This category also includes the copper IUD, which works without hormones and can be inserted up to five days after intercourse. levonorgestrel is the active ingredient in many of these emergency pills, offering a convenient, over‑the‑counter solution for many who need it. Another major family is Hormonal birth control, daily or monthly regimens that combine synthetic hormones to prevent ovulation. Within that family, levonorgestrel appears in some combined oral contraceptives and in the levonorgestrel‑only mini‑pill, giving users a low‑dose, reliable option. When comparing approaches, the copper IUD Copper IUD, a non‑hormonal device that creates a hostile environment for sperm provides the longest‑lasting protection without the hormone‑related side effects, while levonorgestrel‑based pills are easier to start and stop.
Understanding how levonorgestrel fits into the broader contraception landscape helps you choose the right method. The drug’s typical dosage for emergency use is a single 1.5 mg tablet taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, though a two‑dose 0.75 mg regimen is also approved in some countries. Side effects are generally mild—headache, nausea, or fatigue—and usually resolve in a day or two. For those seeking regular birth control, the levonorgestrel‑only mini‑pill requires daily intake at the same time each day, offering a hormone‑light alternative to combined pills. If you’re weighing long‑term solutions, the copper IUD’s efficacy exceeds 99 % for up to ten years and avoids the hormonal cycle altogether. Below, you’ll find articles that dive deeper into each option, share real‑world tips for buying safe generic versions online, and explain how to talk to your pharmacist or doctor about the best fit for your lifestyle.
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