Women′s Health Information
Levonorgestrel, commonly known as ″the morning after pill″ or ″Plan B,″ is an emergency hormonal contraceptive pill (ECP). If used within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse it significantly reduces the possibility of pregnancy. ECP is not an abortion pill. ECP blocks the possibility for pregnancy by preventing ovulation, by interfering with the joining of egg and sperm, or by altering the lining of the uterus to prevent an egg from implanting. In the case of an already established pregnancy, ECP does not interfere with or stop the pregnancy, nor does it affect the well-being of the fetus.