How to Take the Morning After Pill: Complete Guide
Quick Answer
Take emergency contraception as soon as possible after unprotected sex. For Postinor, take both pills at once (or 12 hours apart if preferred). For Mifestad, take the single tablet. You can take EC with or without food. If you vomit within 2 hours, you may need another dose.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps for maximum effectiveness:
Take it as soon as possible. The sooner you take EC, the more effective it is. Don't wait.
Postinor: Take both tablets together (recommended) or take one tablet, then the second 12 hours later.
Mifestad: Take the single tablet whole. Do not crush or chew.
Food is optional. You can take EC with or without food. Some people prefer taking it with a small snack to reduce nausea.
Stay near a bathroom for 2 hours. If you vomit within 2 hours, contact a healthcare provider - you may need another dose.
When to Take It
The golden rule: The sooner, the better.
| Timing | Postinor Effectiveness | Mifestad Effectiveness |
|--------|----------------------|----------------------|
| Within 24 hours | 95% | 98% |
| 24-48 hours | 85% | 97% |
| 48-72 hours | 58% | 95% |
| 72-120 hours | Not recommended | 85% |
Don't wait to see if you "feel pregnant" - take EC immediately.
Managing Side Effects
Common side effects and how to handle them:
Nausea: Usually mild. Eat bland foods, stay hydrated. Anti-nausea medication can help.
Headache: Over-the-counter pain relievers are safe to take.
Fatigue: Rest if you can. This typically passes within 24 hours.
Irregular bleeding: Spotting is normal. Your next period may be early or late.
Most side effects resolve within 24-48 hours.
What to Do After Taking EC
After taking emergency contraception: 1. **Use backup contraception** (condoms) until your next period. 2. **Track your period.** It may be early or late by up to a week. 3. **Take a pregnancy test** if your period is more than a week late. 4. **Consider regular contraception** to avoid needing EC again. We can help with this too.
Use backup contraception (condoms) until your next period
Track your period - it may be early or late by up to a week
Take a pregnancy test if your period is more than a week late
Consider regular contraception to avoid needing EC again
Need emergency contraception? We deliver same-day in Metro Manila.
Get EC NowFrequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can take EC with or without food. However, if you're prone to nausea, a small bland snack may help reduce this side effect.
If you vomit within 2 hours of taking EC, the medication may not have been absorbed. Contact a healthcare provider - you may need another dose.
Yes, over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen are safe to take with emergency contraception.
Yes, the current recommendation is to take both Postinor tablets at the same time. This is equally effective and more convenient than taking them 12 hours apart.
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