Postpil
Postpil is a ONE-DOSE emergency contraceptive pill that gives women a last chance to prevent pregnancy. Offers women an affordable, simple and safe solution if taken within 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse.
- 1 tablet of 1.5mg levonorgestrel
- Most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, but can be used up to 72 hours (3 days) afterwards
- WHO Prequalified Emergency Contraception Pill
- Pregnancy rate is less than 1.2% to 2.1%. The pill is more effective the sooner it is taken after unprotected sex*
- Mechanism of action: Preventing or delaying release of the egg (ovulation)
- Postpil does not induce abortion or affect an existing pregnancy
- Side effects are uncommon but can include nausea and vomiting, irregular vaginal bleeding and fatigue
- Contraindications: Postpil should not be used if there is a known or suspected pregnancy or in cases of hypersensitivity to levonorgestrel
* World Health Organization. (2021). Emergency contraception Fact sheet. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/emergency-contraception
Benefits:
- Safe – It does not affect fertility, there is no risk of cancer or ectopic pregnancy, and no long-term side effects.
- Easy to access – Available at pharmacies and drugstores, no prescription required (where regulations permit)
- Suitable for all women of all ages, including breastfeeding mothers
Method of Administration:
- Women should take one tablet of Postpil orally as soon as possible (and no later than 72 hours) in the case of unprotected sexual intercourse, suspected or confirmed method failure, or sexual assault.
- If the user vomits within two hours of taking the tablet, the dose should be repeated
- Postpil can be used at any time during the menstrual cycle
