What is I-pill?
I-Pill is usedΒ as an emergency contraceptive tablet in the event of unsafe intercourse or failure of contraception, to avoid unintended pregnancy.Β Within 24-72 hours after having unprotected sex, the emergency contraceptive pill must be taken. It is best to take the pill orally.
- I-Pill tablet contains an active ingredient called levonorgestrel, which inhibits the production of LH and FSH hormones.
- These hormones regulate ovulation; I-Pill works by delaying ovulation or disrupting sperm-egg fertilisation.
Overview: I-pill
| Nature | Emergency contraceptive |
|---|---|
| Composition | Levonorgestrel (synthetic progesterone) |
| Uses | Prevents unwanted pregnancy |
| Side-effects | allergies, irregular menstrual cycle, unexpected vaginal bleeding,Β skin rashes |
| Precautions | porphyria, arterial disease, breast cancer, liver problem |
Uses of I-Pill
I-pill is an anti-pregnancy pill and used in various situations:
I-Pill as Emergency Contraceptive:
- Used to prevent unintended pregnancy after unsafe intercourse or contraception failure.
- It should be taken orally within 24-72 hours of unprotected sex.
Prevention of Pregnancy:
- Slows the ovulation process if the egg hasn’t been released.
- Disrupts sperm-egg fertilisation if ovulation has occurred.
- Hinders implantation of a fertilised egg in the uterus if fertilisation has occurred.
Importance of Emergency Use:
- It is not a primary form of birth control; it is only for emergency situations.
- It shouldn’t be confused with abortion pills.
Post-Sexual Assault:
- The I-pill can be used as part of emergency contraception following sexual assault to reduce theΒ risk of pregnancy.
Way of use:
To stop unintended pregnancy, take one pill as soon as possible but no later than 72 hours after unprotected sex.
How Levonorgestrel Works in Preventing Pregnancy?
- The synthetic form of the naturally occurring female sex hormone called progesterone is Levonorgestrel.
- The mature egg is released from the ovaries during a typical menstrual period; this process is termed ovulation.
- To avoid the release of more eggs, the ovaries subsequently produce progesterone and prepare the womb for a future pregnancy.
- When fertilization occurs, the body’s progesterone levels remain elevated, and the womb lining is retained.
- If there is no pregnancy, the body’s progesterone levels decrease, resulting in menstrual cycles.
- After swallowing the I-pill, however, the body is fooled into believing that the egg has been released to prevent the egg from being released.
I-Pill Side Effects
If taken responsibly, this tablet is generally secure. There may be some side effects, however, such as:
- Nausea
- Tiredness
- Headaches
- Cramps of the Stomach
- Irregularities in Menstruation (delayed or early periods)
- Levonorgestrel, which can induce allergies in women, is the active component of this pill.
- In the menstrual cycle, this can cause abnormalities
- It can cause vaginal bleeding or discharge that is unusual or unexpected.
- It may cause physical pain, such asΒ fatigue,Β dizziness,Β and breast tenderness.
- It will adversely affect your libido.
- It can causeΒ rashesΒ on the skin
- It may also react poorly with other medicines.
Owing to the heavy dose of hormones found in the pill, most of these side effects occur.
Note
- I-Pill is a contraceptive pill for emergencies and is not recommended for abortion purposes.
- It is only suitable for women between the ages of 25-45 and is not approved for adolescents.
- If you are allergic to Levonorgestrel or additives that are present with it, stop using I-Pill.
Precautions to Follow Before Using I-Pill
- Use the emergency contraceptive pill (I-pill) only for emergency purposes due to its high dose of hormones for birth control.
- Differentiate between the I-pill and standard oral contraceptive or abortion pills; the I-pill is specifically for emergency contraception.
- If Menstruation doesn’t occur within three weeks after taking the pill, consider a pregnancy test to ensure effectiveness.
- Do not take the pill if you are allergic to it; consult your doctor for alternative contraceptive options.
- In case of vomiting within three hours of taking the pill, take another one promptly, as vomiting may reduce absorption and effectiveness.
- Emergency contraceptive pills are not 100% effective in preventing pregnancy.
- They cannot terminate an existing pregnancy.
- They do not protect againstΒ sexually transmitted diseasesΒ like HIV; always use condoms for protection.
Storage and Safety
- Do not exceed the dosage prescribed.
- Before using it, read the instruction leaflet/label carefully
- Store in an excellent spot, secured against moisture and sun.
- Keep out of children’s reach and hearing.
- Medically supervised use
Concerns About Emergency Contraceptive Pills for Adults
Age Restrictions:
- The emergency pill is recommended only for women between 25 and 45 years old.
- Adolescents are advised against using emergency contraceptive pills due to safety concerns.
Need for Sex Education Campaigns:
- With the increasing rate of teenage pregnancy in India, schools and colleges should consider launching sex education campaigns.
- These campaigns can educate young people about the risks and harmful effects of contraceptive pills on a developing reproductive system.
Hormonal Effects of Contraceptive Pills:
- Contraceptive pills contain hormones that can disrupt the natural hormonal balance in the body.
- Prolonged use of hormonal pills can lead to serious menstrual problems and harm to the ovaries.
Potential Side Effects:
- Emergency pills may lower libido levels, according to research from ISARC.
- Some women experience delayed periods or skin allergies due to hormonal changes.
- Serious headaches can also occur as a result of hormonal imbalances caused by contraceptive pills.
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