How many hours after intercourse should levonorgestrel be taken for emergency contraception?

How many hours after intercourse should levonorgestrel be taken for emergency contraception?

• A. 24 hours
• B. 48 hours
• C. 72 hours
• D. 120 hours

Answer: (D)

Levonorgestrel as emergency contraception is used after unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy by mainly delaying ovulation. The key point is the time window: it can be taken up to five days (120 hours) after intercourse. Its effectiveness is highest when taken as soon as possible, especially within the first 72 hours, but there is still potential benefit up to 120 hours. That broader window is why this answer is selected. If more than five days have passed, this method is unlikely to prevent pregnancy. If vomiting occurs within a short time after taking the pill, a repeat dose is considered.

Levonorgestrel as emergency contraception is used after unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy by mainly delaying ovulation. The key point is the time window: it can be taken up to five days (120 hours) after intercourse. Its effectiveness is highest when taken as soon as possible, especially within the first 72 hours, but there is still potential benefit up to 120 hours. That broader window is why this answer is selected. If more than five days have passed, this method is unlikely to prevent pregnancy. If vomiting occurs within a short time after taking the pill, a repeat dose is considered.