Before taking any medication, including Plan B, or any anti-nausea remedies, consult with a healthcare provider. The information provided here is for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice.
Understanding Plan B and its potential for nausea
Plan B One-Step, and other similar emergency contraceptive pills, use a concentrated dose of the synthetic hormone levonorgestrel. This hormone, which is also found in lower doses in some birth control pills, can cause side effects like nausea and vomiting due to the high, concentrated dosage. While many people experience no issues, those who are particularly sensitive to hormonal changes may find their stomachs feel upset. The good news is that these side effects are usually temporary and manageable.
Strategies to prevent nausea and vomiting before taking Plan B
To minimize the risk of nausea and ensure the pill stays down, there are several proactive steps you can take. Taking these measures can significantly increase your comfort and confidence in the medication's effectiveness.
Consider an anti-nausea medication
One approach to potentially minimize nausea is to consider taking an over-the-counter (OTC) anti-nausea medication. It is advisable to take such medication shortly before your Plan B dose.
- Timing: Follow the specific instructions provided with the anti-nausea medication for optimal timing relative to taking Plan B.
- Options: Options for OTC anti-nausea medication include those containing meclizine, often sold under various brand names. It is important to be aware that some of these medications may cause drowsiness.
Eat a light meal
Taking Plan B on an empty stomach can increase the likelihood of nausea. Eating a light meal or snack immediately before or with the pill can help settle your stomach and potentially improve absorption.
- Recommended foods: Focus on bland, easily digestible foods like toast, crackers, or bananas.
- Foods to avoid: Steer clear of heavy, greasy, or spicy foods, as these can exacerbate stomach upset.
Try home remedies
For some, natural remedies can provide relief. Sipping on certain teas can be a soothing approach.
- Ginger tea: Ginger is a well-known remedy for nausea.
- Peppermint tea: Peppermint can also help calm an upset stomach.
What to do if you vomit after taking Plan B
If you do end up throwing up after taking Plan B, the timing is critical. The medication needs enough time to be absorbed into your system to be effective.
The two-hour consideration
If you vomit within two hours of taking the pill, there is a chance your body did not absorb the hormones completely. In this situation, the following steps are crucial:
- Contact a professional: Call a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, as soon as possible.
- Ask about a repeat dose: They will advise you on whether another dose is necessary to ensure effectiveness.
Follow-up
Regardless of whether you vomit or not, if your next period is more than a week late, you should take a pregnancy test. If you have concerns, a follow-up with your healthcare provider is recommended.
Managing other common Plan B side effects
Beyond nausea, other side effects are possible but typically mild and temporary.
- Headaches and abdominal pain: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may offer relief. A heating pad can also be soothing for cramps.
- Dizziness and fatigue: Rest and staying hydrated can help with these symptoms, which usually pass within a day or two.
- Breast tenderness: Applying a warm compress may offer some relief.
- Changes in your period: Your next menstrual cycle may be different—earlier, later, heavier, or lighter. This is normal and should return to its usual pattern the following month.
Comparison of potential prevention methods
| Method | How it may work | Potential Benefits | Potential Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| OTC Anti-Nausea Meds | May block nausea signals in the brain | Potential for reducing vomiting | May cause drowsiness; potential for drug interaction |
| Eating with the Pill | May cushion the stomach, aid absorption | Simple, non-medication approach | May be less effective for severe nausea |
| Ginger/Peppermint Tea | Natural, soothing properties | Gentle on the stomach; easy to find | Efficacy varies person to person |
When to contact a healthcare professional
While most Plan B side effects are temporary, some situations warrant a call to your doctor.
- Severe abdominal pain: This could be a sign of a rare but serious ectopic pregnancy, which occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus.
- Symptoms lasting more than 48 hours: If side effects persist or worsen, it's best to seek medical advice.
- Period is a week or more late: Follow up with a pregnancy test and your provider.
Conclusion
While the thought of getting sick from Plan B is unsettling, understanding potential preventative measures and the appropriate steps to take if you do vomit can provide peace of mind. Taking the pill with a light meal and considering an OTC anti-nausea medication beforehand are strategies that may help in managing this side effect. Remember that if you vomit within two hours, contacting a healthcare provider is essential for guidance on whether to take a repeat dose. By being prepared, you can navigate the process more comfortably and work to ensure the effectiveness of this important emergency contraceptive.
For more information on emergency contraception, including the different types available, consult a reliable resource like Planned Parenthood's guide on the morning-after pill.
