Postinor 1 is a widely used emergency contraceptive among women. However, many people still wonder whether Postinor 1 is safe for breastfeeding mothers.
1. What is postinor 1?
Postinor 1 is an emergency contraceptive containing the main active ingredient Levonorgestrel 1.5mg. The medication can be used within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. Levonorgestrel prevents pregnancy through the following mechanisms:
- Increasing cervical mucus
- Inhibiting sperm movement through the uterus and reducing sperm survival
- Suppressing ovulation by negatively influencing the hypothalamus, reducing the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH)
The medication also changes the endometrium and affects the implantation process. However, Levonorgestrel does not work if implantation has already occurred. When taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse, Postinor 1 can prevent about 84% of expected pregnancies. The sooner the pill is taken, the higher its effectiveness, with the best results achieved immediately after unprotected intercourse.
2. How to use Postinor 1?
Postinor 1 is taken orally. It should be used as soon as possible within the first 12 hours and no later than 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected intercourse. Delaying its use reduces effectiveness. The sooner Postinor 1 is used, the more effective it is. If you are on a regular contraceptive method, such as daily birth control pills, you can continue with your usual method after using Postinor 1.
3. Can Postinor 1 be used while breastfeeding?
Levonorgestrel is excreted in breast milk; however, it is not considered harmful to the infant. The actual concentration of the medication in breast milk depends on the dosage and the method of administration.
A study involving 100 breastfeeding women showed that a single oral dose of Levonorgestrel did not adversely affect milk production or the infant's health. Therefore, breastfeeding women can use oral Levonorgestrel for emergency contraception.
If you are concerned, you can take the pill immediately after breastfeeding and avoid breastfeeding for at least 8 hours. This interval decreases the medication concentration in the milk, minimizing potential risks to the baby.
4. Side effects of Postinor 1
Using Postinor 1 may cause some side effects, including:
>10%
- Central nervous system: Fatigue
- Endocrine and metabolism: Irregular bleeding or spotting until the next menstrual period
- Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, lower abdominal pain, diarrhea
1–10%
- Central nervous system: Dizziness, headache
- Endocrine and metabolism: Menstrual suppression
- Reproductive system: Breast tenderness
Frequency unknown: Dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation, hypomenorrhea, pelvic pain, vomiting
Other side effects include itching, hives, rash, or facial swelling. If you experience any unusual symptoms, consult the doctor or pharmacist for advice.
5. Precautions when using Postinor 1
When using Postinor 1, keep the following in mind:
- Unusual bleeding: Spotting may occur after taking the pill. Pregnancy should be considered if your period is delayed by more than 7 days.
- Ectopic pregnancy: A history of ectopic pregnancy is not a contraindication to emergency contraception. The possibility of ectopic pregnancy should be considered in patients with lower abdominal pain, especially when associated with a missed period or vaginal bleeding in patients with previous amenorrhea.
- Not for regular use: Postinor 1 is not a regular contraceptive method and does not terminate existing pregnancies.
- Emergency use only: Postinor 1 is suitable only as an emergency option and should not be used frequently. Daily contraceptive methods are more effective for regular pregnancy prevention.
- Protection against HIV infection: Emergency contraception does not protect against HIV infection or other sexually transmitted diseases. Therefore, you should still use safety measures such as condoms.
In addition, inform the doctor if you have the following conditions before using Postinor 1:
- You are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant.
- Your period is late, or your last menstrual period was unusual.
- You had unprotected intercourse beyond 72 hours.
- You have gastrointestinal disorders or severe liver failure.
In summary, Postinor 1 is an emergency contraceptive that breastfeeding women can safely use. If you are concerned, take the pill immediately after breastfeeding and wait at least 8 hours before nursing again. This interval reduces the amount of medication in the milk, minimizing potential harm to the baby.
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