Yes, you can drink alcohol after taking Plan B, but it’s advisable to limit alcohol consumption to ensure the medication works effectively.
Plan B is a popular emergency contraceptive used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. Many women wonder if it’s safe to consume alcohol after taking this medication. The short answer is yes, but there are important considerations to keep in mind.
Alcohol and Plan B: The Facts
Research shows no direct interaction between alcohol and levonorgestrel, the active ingredient in Plan B. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, emergency contraceptives aren’t listed among medications that have dangerous interactions with alcohol.
How Alcohol Affects Plan B’s Effectiveness
Alcohol doesn’t reduce Plan B’s effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. The medication works by:
- Delaying or preventing ovulation
- Thickening cervical mucus
- Potentially affecting sperm mobility
These mechanisms aren’t impacted by alcohol consumption. However, if you vomit within 2 hours of taking Plan B after drinking heavily, you may need to take another dose.
Potential Side Effects to Consider
While drinking with Plan B isn’t dangerous, alcohol may worsen some common side effects:
| Plan B Side Effect | How Alcohol May Affect It |
|---|---|
| Nausea | Alcohol can increase nausea and vomiting |
| Headache | Alcohol may intensify headaches |
| Dizziness | Alcohol can worsen dizziness |
| Fatigue | Alcohol may increase tiredness |
Other Common Plan B Side Effects
Be aware that Plan B may also cause:
- Breast tenderness
- Abdominal pain
- Irregular menstrual bleeding
- Changes in your next period
When to Avoid Alcohol After Plan B
Consider limiting alcohol if you:
- Have a history of severe nausea with Plan B
- Are prone to alcohol-related headaches
- Need to drive or operate machinery
- Are taking other medications that interact with alcohol
For those interested in natural health alternatives, our guide on the best smoothies for cough and cold offers nutritious options that won’t interfere with medications.
What to Know About Plan B Effectiveness
Plan B is most effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, with effectiveness decreasing over time:
- 95% effective when taken within 24 hours
- 85% effective when taken within 48-72 hours
- Less effective for women over 165 pounds
For those considering long-term contraception options, our review of the best commercial juicers provides information on equipment that could support a health-focused lifestyle.
When to Take a Pregnancy Test
If you don’t get your period within 3 weeks of taking Plan B, take a pregnancy test. While rare, Plan B can fail, especially if:
- You were already ovulating when you took it
- You had additional unprotected sex after taking it
- You vomited shortly after taking the pill
Final Recommendations
While drinking alcohol after taking Plan B is generally safe, moderation is key. Stay hydrated and listen to your body. If you experience severe side effects, consult a healthcare provider. Remember that Plan B is for emergency use only and shouldn’t replace regular contraception.
