Can Levonorgestrel Cause Ectopic Pregnancy?
December 12, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Levonorgestrel is a synthetic hormone used in emergency contraception pills (commonly known as the morning-after pill) and certain types of birth control pills. It’s not known to cause ectopic pregnancy.
Ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants and grows outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tubes. Levonorgestrel emergency contraception works primarily by preventing or delaying ovulation and inhibiting fertilization. It’s intended to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure and is not designed to interrupt an established pregnancy.
If a pregnancy has already occurred and the fertilized egg has implanted outside the uterus, levonorgestrel emergency contraception will not terminate that pregnancy or prevent an ectopic pregnancy. However, it’s essential to note that ectopic pregnancies are generally caused by factors unrelated to the use of emergency contraception.
While levonorgestrel is not known to cause ectopic pregnancy, any concerns or questions about the use of emergency contraception, its effectiveness, or the risk of ectopic pregnancy should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Early detection and appropriate management of ectopic pregnancy are crucial for the health and well-being of the individual affected.