Hi there, I'm Dr. Smith, an OB/GYN with over 15 years of experience in women's health. I'm here to provide you with accurate and reliable information about your reproductive health concerns.

Let's address your question about Plan B and potential birth defects.

Plan B, also known as the morning-after pill, is an emergency contraceptive used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It primarily contains a high dose of levonorgestrel, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone.

It's important to understand that Plan B does not cause birth defects if taken while pregnant. This is because Plan B's primary mechanism of action is to prevent pregnancy from occurring in the first place.

Here's how Plan B works:


1. Delaying or inhibiting ovulation: Levonorgestrel primarily works by delaying or preventing the release of an egg from the ovary (ovulation). If ovulation has already occurred, Plan B is less likely to be effective.

2. Thickening cervical mucus: Plan B also thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize an egg.

3. Altering the uterine lining: While less established, some studies suggest that Plan B might also affect the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive to a fertilized egg.

**Plan B does not interrupt an established pregnancy.** This means that if a fertilized egg has already implanted in the uterine lining, Plan B will not harm the developing embryo or cause a miscarriage.

Numerous studies have investigated the safety of levonorgestrel exposure during pregnancy, and there's no conclusive evidence to suggest a link between Plan B use in early pregnancy and an increased risk of birth defects.

**However, it's crucial to emphasize that Plan B is not intended for use as a regular method of contraception.** If you're sexually active and not trying to conceive, I strongly recommend discussing reliable contraceptive options with your healthcare provider.

**If you have concerns about potential pregnancy or need emergency contraception, consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible.** They can provide personalized advice, assess your individual circumstances, and guide you toward appropriate care.

Remember, accurate information and open communication with your healthcare provider are essential for making informed decisions about your reproductive health.
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In the case of progestin-only pills (like Plan B One-Step, Next Choice One Dose, or My Way), these pills contain the same hormones as many daily birth control pills, which a number of studies have found cause no increased risk of birth defects in children born to women who continued to take them because they didn't ...read more >>