Postinor 2, better known as P2, is an emergency contraceptive pill that is usually taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy ....CONTINUE READING
Although it is not a long-term contraceptive or even the safest form of contraception available
, the pill is a handy tool that has gained a lot of popularity in recent years. Part of the reason for its popularity is that it is readily available in most chemists and clinics across the country at an affordable price, usually for as little as Ksh.100.
Despite the popularity of the P2 pills, many women who use this pill really don’t understand how it works or if it has any side effects. As a result, some women might abuse or misuse this emergency contraceptive.
In this article, we will explain how P2 works, how effective it is in preventing pregnancies, and explore some of the side effects associated with its use.
The P2 pills contain a hormone called levonorgestrel hormone, which is a synthetic form of progesterone.
If taken before ovulation, the levonorgestrel hormone works by preventing ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary), which is necessary for fertilisation and pregnancy to occur.
However, if the P2 is taken after ovulation, the levonorgestrel hormone thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for the sperm to reach the egg. Additionally, it also alters the lining of the uterus, making it less hospitable to a fertilised egg.
P2 can significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy if taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, but it’s more effective when taken as soon after unprotected sex as possible, ideally within the first 24 hours.
P2 has an 85% average success rate in preventing pregnancy. There is a 95% chance of preventing pregnancy if taken within 24 hours, and a 58% chance of preventing pregnancy if taken within 48-72 hours. It’s not clear whether it works if taken more than 72 hours after unprotected coitus.
The effectiveness of the Postinor-2 pill is also somehow affected by a woman’s weight. Some studies show that it is less effective in women who weigh above 70Kg. For such women it is recommended to use alternative emergency contraception like the Copper IUD (coil) which both acts as a long-term contraception as well as a more effective emergency contraception if inserted up to five days after the egg is released.
Even though it’s generally safe to use, like all drugs, P2 has some potential side effects associated with its use.
Some of the common side effects that you might experience if you use P2 can include the following:
Other uncommon side effects associated with the use of P2 pills include the following:
If you vomit within 3 hours after taking Postinor-2, it’s advisable to take another dose of the pill.
It’s also recommended to consult with your doctor if you experience extreme cramping or bleeding after taking P2 pills.
Since P2 is intended to be used as a one-time emergency contraceptive and is not meant to be used as a regular form of birth control, there are no long-term side effects associated with its use if used as per instructions.
However, it is important to note that using P2 frequently (abusing it) can disrupt your menstrual cycle
and increase your chances of unintended pregnancies in the future.
