What is Unwanted-72?
Unwanted-72 is a brand of emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) available in India, containing the active ingredient levonorgestrel. It is used after unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure to prevent unplanned pregnancy and is most effective when taken within 72 hours. Unwanted-72 does not terminate an existing pregnancy and is ineffective if implantation has already occurred. It is a high-dose hormonal medication and not intended for routine contraception.
The active ingredient: Levonorgestrel
Levonorgestrel is a synthetic progestin hormone. While used in lower doses with estrogen in regular birth control, Unwanted-72 utilizes a high dose of levonorgestrel alone to rapidly elevate hormone levels for its contraceptive effect.
How does Unwanted-72 work?
The primary way levonorgestrel-only emergency contraceptives like Unwanted-72 work is by preventing or delaying ovulation. The high dose of levonorgestrel suppresses the LH surge needed to release an egg, thus preventing fertilization. It may also thicken cervical mucus, hindering sperm movement. While some research has explored effects on the uterine lining, ovulation inhibition is considered the main mechanism.
How to use Unwanted-72
Administration and timing
For maximum effectiveness, Unwanted-72 should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, but it can be used up to 72 hours later. Some reduced effectiveness may occur between 72 and 120 hours, but efficacy decreases with time. Unwanted-72 is typically available as a single tablet. Some older or alternative products may use a two-pill regimen, but the single tablet is now more common and equally effective. The pill can be taken with or without food. It is crucial to follow the administration instructions provided with the specific product.
What to do if you vomit
If you vomit within two hours of taking Unwanted-72, the medication may not have been fully absorbed. Taking another tablet immediately is recommended to ensure effectiveness.
Post-use considerations
After taking Unwanted-72, use a barrier method like condoms for any subsequent sexual activity until your next period starts, as emergency contraception does not protect against later instances of unprotected sex.
What to expect: Side effects and efficacy
Common side effects
Common, temporary side effects that usually subside within a day or two may occur due to the high hormone dose in Unwanted-72. These include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, headache, abdominal or pelvic pain, breast tenderness, and changes in menstrual bleeding. Seek medical advice for persistent or severe side effects, or severe lower abdominal pain weeks later.
Measuring effectiveness
Unwanted-72 is not 100% effective, and its success is dependent on the time elapsed since unprotected sex. When taken within 72 hours, it significantly lowers the chance of pregnancy, with some effectiveness rates reported up to 89% with early use. However, it is less effective than consistent, regular birth control methods. The arrival of your next period on time is the primary indicator of effectiveness. If your period is over a week late, take a pregnancy test.
Unwanted-72 vs. other emergency contraceptives
Several types of emergency contraception exist, each with different ingredients and usage guidelines. Knowing these differences helps in choosing the most suitable option. Unwanted-72 uses levonorgestrel, while other options include ulipristal acetate (like ella) and the copper IUD.
| Feature | Unwanted-72 (Levonorgestrel) | Ella (Ulipristal Acetate) | Copper IUD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | Primarily over-the-counter (OTC) in India. | Prescription-only in many countries. | Requires a doctor or nurse to insert. |
| Timeframe | Most effective within 72 hours of unprotected sex. | Effective for up to 120 hours (5 days). | Effective for up to 120 hours (5 days). |
| Main Action | Prevents or delays ovulation. | Delays or inhibits ovulation, even during the LH surge. | Prevents fertilization and implantation. |
| Effectiveness | Decreases over the 72-hour period. | Retains higher effectiveness than levonorgestrel, especially later in the 5-day window. | Most effective form of emergency contraception. |
| Body Weight | Potentially less effective in individuals with higher body mass index (BMI > 25). | Less effective in individuals with higher body weight (BMI > 30). | Efficacy is not affected by body weight. |
| Breastfeeding | Passes into breast milk; medical advice is recommended. | Requires pumping and discarding breast milk for 24 hours. | No effect on breast milk. |
Important warnings and precautions
- Not for routine use: Unwanted-72 is only for emergencies and less effective than regular contraception. Frequent use can disrupt the menstrual cycle.
- No STI protection: It does not protect against STIs, including HIV. Use condoms for STI protection.
- Medical history: Consult a doctor before use if you have conditions like liver disease, breast cancer, or blood clotting disorders.
- Drug interactions: Certain medications, such as St. John's Wort and some anticonvulsants, can lower levonorgestrel's effectiveness.
- Pregnancy status: Do not use if you are already pregnant or suspect you might be, as it is ineffective in this case.
Conclusion
Unwanted-72 is an accessible levonorgestrel-based emergency contraceptive pill used within 72 hours of unprotected sex in India. Its main function is preventing or delaying ovulation, and taking it sooner increases its effectiveness. While generally safe, it's a high-dose hormone medication with potential temporary side effects and is not a substitute for regular birth control or STI protection. Understanding available emergency contraception options and consulting a healthcare provider for guidance is advisable. For more information on broader contraceptive methods, refer to resources like the World Health Organization(https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/emergency-contraception).
