Emergency Contraceptive Timing Guide: When Plan B Works, Fails, or Needs an Alternative
Different emergency methods offer varying operational windows, active ingredients, and metabolic tolerances. The table below outlines how standard retail pills compare against prescription tablets and intrauterine devices.
| Contraceptive Method | Active Agent | Time Limit | Reported Effectiveness | Weight Limits / Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plan B One-Step (Generic Equivalents) | Levonorgestrel (1.5 mg) | Up to 72 hours (3 days) | 58%, 95% (time-dependent) | Efficacy drops at >165 lbs; largely ineffective over 175 lbs |
| Ella | Ulipristal acetate (30 mg) | Up to 120 hours (5 days) | ~85%, 90% consistent across 5 days | Prescription required; drops in efficacy above 195 lbs |
| Copper IUD (Paragard) | Copper ions (non-hormonal) | Up to 120 hours (5 days) | >99.9% | No weight limits; requires immediate clinical insertion |
| Hormonal IUD (Mirena / Liletta) | Levonorgestrel (52 mg reservoir) | Up to 120 hours (5 days) | >99.7% | No weight limits; provides ongoing birth control for 8 years |
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