Introduction:
Pregnancy worries or scares can happen even when one is careful, and that’s when knowing a safe backup plan can really make a difference. That’s when one can rely on the i-Pill Tablet or emergency contraception that acts as a quick fix to such situations.
Even though it is commonly used by women to avoid unwanted pregnancy after a contraceptive failure, unprotected intercourse, or a missed pill, there are several women who are not aware of how to use it, its effectiveness, its benefits, and so on.
Wondering how to use an i-Pill, what is the right time to take it, and if there are any possible side effects? Well, let’s help you understand emergency contraception here:
What is the i-Pill Tablet?
The i-Pill emergency contraceptive is designed to help women prevent pregnancy post-coital when a regular contraceptive is not used or fails. It is usually taken in conditions such as unprotected intercourse, missed contraceptive pills, or breakage or slippage of a condom.
This type of contraceptive pill should be consumed occasionally only and is not considered ideal in comparison to other long-term contraceptive methods.
How Does i-Pill Work?
So, how exactly does an i-Pill Tablet work? Well, it contains levonorgestrel, which is a synthetic version of the female hormone known as progesterone. It is a hormone that is quite helpful in:
- Stopping or delaying the ovulation so that no egg is released.
- Preventing fertilisation, if the ovulation has already occurred
- Preventing the chances of fertilised egg implantation into the uterine lining
If you’re planning to take the i-Pill, then it is best to take it within 72 hours or three days of unprotected intercourse, as it is more effective when taken as early as possible.
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Side Effects of i-Pill Tablets
What are potential i-Pill side effects? Are there any major side effects that can affect my health or fertility? If that’s what you are thinking, then here are a few things to know:
Mild Side Effects:
The I-Pill tablet is usually considered safe, but a person can experience mild to moderate side effects that include:
- Pain or cramps in the abdominal area
- Breast tenderness
- Spotting or irregular bleeding
- Vomiting, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, or headache
It is advised to get in touch with the doctor if the symptoms persist.
Side Effects on Periods:
Taking an i-Pill can lead to irregular periods. Some of the most common side effects include:
- Irregularity in period, as your period may come later or earlier than the expected date.
- The flow of your period can be heavier or lighter than it usually is.
- You may experience spotting in between the cycles.
However, it is suggested to take a pregnancy test if your period is delayed more than 7 days, then you are expected date to rule out pregnancy.
Future Pregnancy Related Side Effects:
When we talk about fertility or pregnancy-related i-Pill side effects, then there are no future fertility or pregnancy issues. However, these pills may have a temporary effect.
People who take the i-Pill more frequently may experience menstrual cycle disturbance, which is caused by the hormonal imbalance due to the pills. The effects are temporary and don’t harm the reproductive system.
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i-Pill Tablet Price in India
What is the i-Pill price in India? Is it expensive or affordable? Well, in the Indian market, the price of a single tablet ranges somewhere between INR 70 and INR 120, depending on the platform, pharmacy, or drugstore you purchase it from.
Prices of these tablets may vary from e-commerce platforms, pharmacies, and local stores. In comparison to other long-term contraception methods, this emergency contraceptive pill is considered way more affordable.
i-Pill Tablet Uses
What are the typical i-Pill uses? Can it really help me prevent pregnancy? Well, if you’re wondering about whether it is effective or not, then here are some of the key uses of this emergency contraceptive pill that you need to know about:
- These pills are quite effective in reducing the risk of pregnancy in case of unprotected intercourse.
- These are quite effective in case of missed or delayed oral contraceptive pills, condom slippage, or breakage, or wrong use of other birth control methods.
- An i-Pill helps in reducing the risk of unintended pregnancy if it is taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, delays ovulation, and prevents fertilisation.
However, it is to be noted that it offers temporary relief from unwanted pregnancy, but doesn’t provide routine protection against future intercourse.
Benefits of i-Pill
Now that you know about different i-Pill uses, you are probably wondering if there are any benefits to taking an i-Pill. This includes:
- An effective and quick fix to unwanted or unintended pregnancy, if taken within the recommended time duration.
- Convenient and easily available, emergency contraception without the need for a prescription.
- A safe and non-invasive alternative in comparison to other methods.
- An effective and reliable last resort method that can help in preventing pregnancy. However, it is to be taken responsibly and not as a regular contraceptive.
- If used occasionally, then it doesn’t have any adverse effect on future pregnancy and fertility.
- Easy to consume with single-dose usage without the need for any follow-up instructions and procedures.
Conclusion
I-Pill Tablet is definitely one of the most effective emergency contraceptives that is quite beneficial in preventing unintended pregnancy after contraceptive failure or unprotected intercourse. However, it is best to seek medical guidelines to make an informed and safe decision for long-term reproductive health.
Shekhawati Hospital is a well-recognised name in the industry when it comes to providing advanced medical facilities, compassionate care, along with a team that is highly qualified and board-certified across multiple departments, including Obstetrics & Gynaecology. The department is led by experienced and skilled doctors who offer personalised and effective healthcare as per patients’ needs.
Whether you are someone who is experiencing menstrual changes or are facing any hormonal health issues, Shekhawati Hospital has a team of expert doctors who are always there to offer you an accurate diagnosis, a personalised treatment plan, and professional healthcare.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1.What are the age restrictions for using the i-Pill tablets in India?
Ans.In India, the recommended age for i-Pill is adult women above 18 years. People who have medical conditions or are minors are not advised to take the tablet. It is best to consult with the doctor before taking the tablets.
2.How to consume an i-Pill?
Ans.You can take one emergency contraceptive pill, or take one just after unprotected intercourse. It is not recommended to take more than one pill, and if you vomit within two hours of taking the pill, then you can take another tablet immediately. It is advised not to take multiple pills in the same menstrual cycle.
3.Can I take an i-Pill tablet if I am suffering from a medical issue?
Ans.No, it is best to consult a doctor before taking such contraceptives. People who are allergic to levonorgestrel, are suffering from an underlying disease, have liver disease, are experiencing unexplained vaginal bleeding, or are pregnant are not recommended to consume the tablet.
