Comparison

Postinor vs Mifestad: Which Emergency Contraception Is Right for You?

Quick Answer

Both Postinor (levonorgestrel) and Mifestad (ulipristal acetate) are effective emergency contraceptives. Postinor works best within 24 hours (95% effective) and is available over-the-counter. Mifestad maintains high effectiveness (95%) even at 72 hours and works up to 5 days, making it the better choice if more time has passed.

Quick Comparison

See how these two options compare at a glance.

Factor	Postinor	Mifestad
Active Ingredient	Levonorgestrel 1.5mg	Ulipristal acetate 30mg
Effective Window	Up to 72 hours (3 days)	Up to 120 hours (5 days)
Peak Effectiveness	95% within 24 hours	98% within 24 hours
Effectiveness at 72 hours	58%	95%
Availability	Over-the-counter	Prescription required
Price (approximate)	Lower	Higher
Use with hormonal BC	Can continue hormonal BC	Wait until next period to restart hormonal BC

How They Work

Both medications prevent pregnancy by delaying or inhibiting ovulation, but they work differently:

Postinor (Levonorgestrel): Prevents or delays ovulation by inhibiting the LH surge. Does not affect implantation or harm an existing pregnancy.

Mifestad (Ulipristal Acetate): Selective progesterone receptor modulator that delays or inhibits ovulation. Effective even when LH surge has begun.

Effectiveness by Timing

The biggest difference between these options is how their effectiveness changes over time.

Time Since Unprotected Sex	Postinor	Mifestad
Within 24 hours	95%	98%
24-48 hours	85%	97%
48-72 hours	58%	95%
72-120 hours	Not recommended	85%

Which Should You Choose?

Your best option depends on your specific situation. Here are our recommendations:

Within 24 hours of unprotected sex: Postinor - Both are highly effective. Postinor is more accessible and affordable when time is on your side.
Between 24-72 hours: Mifestad - Mifestad maintains higher effectiveness (95% vs 58-85%) as time passes.
Between 72-120 hours: Mifestad - Mifestad is the only option effective beyond 72 hours (85% at 120 hours).
Currently on hormonal contraception: Postinor - Postinor allows you to continue your regular birth control without interruption.
Budget is a concern: Postinor - Postinor is more affordable and equally effective within 24 hours.

Side Effects Comparison

Both options have similar side effect profiles, though individual experiences vary.

Common side effects for both:
- Nausea and headache
- Fatigue and dizziness
- Abdominal pain
- Irregular bleeding or spotting
- Changes to your next period

Most side effects are mild and resolve within 24-48 hours.

Get the right emergency contraception delivered to you.

View Options

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Do not combine emergency contraception methods. Taking both may actually reduce effectiveness. Choose one option based on your timing and situation.

Postinor and other levonorgestrel products are generally more affordable. The active ingredient is the same regardless of brand name.

Side effect profiles are similar for both. Individual responses vary, but neither is significantly better tolerated than the other overall.

Levonorgestrel (Postinor) is considered compatible with breastfeeding. For ulipristal acetate (Mifestad), pumping and discarding breast milk for 24 hours after taking is recommended. Consult your healthcare provider.

Related Guides

Timing Guide

Get Started