What is I-pill?

• 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.

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 the risk of 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.

• 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 as fatigue, dizziness, and breast tenderness.
• It will adversely affect your libido.
• It can cause rashes 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.

• 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.

• 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 against sexually transmitted diseases like HIV; always use condoms for protection.

• 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

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.