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Unwanted pregnancy has increased dramatically over the past few years especially in the northern part of the country and this results in women seeking abortion in safe and unsafe conditions.
Reports have shown that most unplanned pregnancies end up being aborted in unsafe conditions which may lead to deaths and serious complications that may have an effect on the womb.
However, the use of emergency contraception (EC) can relatively reduce the rate of unsafe abortions and unplanned pregnancies. Popular emergency contraceptives pills include postinor-2, Postpill, Back-Up, Plan B, etc.
In this article, we would be looking at postinor-2 in particular, the effects of postinor-2 on the womb, when to use postinor 2 and when not to use it, how to use it, the dosage, and a lot more.
What Is Postinor-2?
Postinor-2 is a popular emergency contraceptive also known as morning-after pills. It contains a common female hormone, levonorgestrel. This is used to prevent pregnancy by delaying or preventing ovulation, therefore preventing fertilization.
Levonorgestrel is the process of preventing the release of an egg from the ovary or preventing the fertilization of the egg by sperm. It is in the class of progestin.
What is Postinor-2 used for?
Basically, postinor-2 main function is to prevent pregnancy when taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected intercourse.
It works by delaying the release of an egg during the menstrual cycle or by preventing the sperm from fertilizing the egg and changing the lining of the uterus (womb) to prevent the attachment of fertilized egg.
It should also be noted that postinor-2 is an emergency contraceptive and should not be used as a regular, long-term method of contraception.
It is assumed that Postinor-2 will prevent 85% of expected pregnancies. When taken within the first 24 hours after unprotected intercourse, is expected to prevent 95% of expected pregnancies while 58% when taking between 48 hours to 72 hours.
This medication will not prevent you from contracting a sexually transmitted infection such as HIV, AIDS, etc. It also doesn’t stop an exciting pregnancy. Those who are aspiring to use postinor-2 are advised to talk to their doctor and check their pregnancy status before concluding on using it.
When to take postinor-2
Postinor-2 should be taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sexual intercourse. However, It is not known whether Postinor-2 is effective if taken more than 72 hours after unprotected intercourse.
When not to take postinor-2
Postinor-2 should not be taken if:
🔹You are already pregnant
🔹You have had unprotected sexual intercourse for more than 72 hours, as you may already be pregnant.
🔹You have breast cancer
🔹You’re allergic to ingredients in POSTINOR.
🔹You are experiencing vaginal bleeding and you are not aware of the reason.
🔹You have liver problems.
🔹Do not attempt to take pistonor-2 if it has exceeded the expiry date printed on the pack or if the pack is torn or shows signs of tampering.
Before you take Postinor-2
Before you attempt to take postinor-2, make sure you to:
🔹Consult a doctor
🔹Check if you are already pregnant
How to take Postinor-2
Dose information
- Take one 750 μg tablet within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse. It is advisable to take it early as it has been noticed to be more effective when taken early.
- Take a second 750 μg tablet exactly 12 hours after the first dose.
- If you vomit within 2 hours of taking a tablet, take an additional tablet.
Note: you need to take the second tablet exactly 12 hours after the first tablet.
So you might need to be watchful of the time or you can also delay the first dose. However, it is recommended you take the first dose early for postinor-2 to work effectively.
Postinor-2 can be used at any time during the menstrual cycle unless the menstrual period is late. It is also important you have a follow-up with your doctor within 3 weeks after being used.
Precautions
As the popular saying goes thus “prevention is better than cure”. It is important you take caution when attempting to take any medications as some may not be suitable for you under certain conditions.
Talk to your doctor if you have any of this listed below:
▪ Stroke,
▪ History of breast cancer;
▪ Vascular heart disease;
▪ Diabetes mellitus with nephropathy, retinopathy or neuropathy;
▪ Malabsorption (for example caused by vomiting, severe diarrhoea, Crohn’s disease).
▪ High blood pressure;
After using Postinor-2
Your next menstrual period might arrive on time. Although, there might be a slight difference— it can be early or late. If it is more than 1 week late, or it is unusually light, perform a pregnancy test.
It’s also very important you do a follow-up with your doctor within 3 weeks of taking postinor-2.
If you do not experience a menstrual period after 3 weeks of taking Postinor-2, you might be pregnant. We recommend you consult your doctor.
How often can you take Postinor-2?
Postinor-2 is just emergency contraception only. It should not be taken regularly or for long-term contraception. You can as well reach out to your doctor for more on long-term contraception.
It’s also important to note that postinor-2 has fewer side effects or health risks than abortion pills and hospital abortion.
What If you are pregnant?
Postinor-2 does not work if you are already pregnant. If you find out you are pregnant after taking postinor-2, do not take it again and also talk to your doctor for further clarification.
How do I know it has worked?
You will know it worked when you have your next period and it seems like a normal period.
Effects Of Postinor-2 On The Womb
Too much postinor-2 has been shown to have effects on the womb such as weakening the walls of the womb and can cause damage to the uterus. Which can later result in miscarriage in the future.
The sign that shows that there is a problem with the uterus is when bleeding occurs between periods or after six days. Causes can also include; fibroids, cancer, hormones, infection, thyroid problems, polyps, or pregnancy.
When to turn to your doctor?
- When your period is more than a week late or it is unusually heavy or light.
- When you have concerns about your health or recommendation on the most suitable contraception for you.
- When you have sudden or unusual pain in the lower abdomen and your period is late.
Conclusion
Postinor-2 can be used to prevent pregnancy or unprotected sexual intercourse. This serves as a better alternative rather than going for abortion.
It is also important to take certain precautions so as not to abuse the use of postinor-2. It is also important to store in a cool dry place and keep out of the reach of children.
Disclaimer
This article is intended to educate the general public about postinor-2 and those not standing in place of a doctor. So we recommend you consult your doctor for further clarification.
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