Unwanted 72 is one of the most commonly used emergency contraceptive pills in India. It contains 1.5 mg Levonorgestrel, a hormone that delays ovulation to reduce the chances of pregnancy after unprotected sex. Though the pill is safe for emergency use, repeated usage or incorrect use can lead to short-term and long-term side effects. This medical guide by Genesis IVF Clinic explains the real side effects, myths, and when to seek fertility help.
What Is Unwanted 72 and How Does It Work?
Unwanted 72 prevents pregnancy by delaying or stopping ovulation. If the egg is not released, sperm cannot fertilize it. It does not terminate an existing pregnancy and must not be confused with abortion pills.
It is an emergency-only contraceptive, not a regular birth control method. Repeated use can cause hormonal imbalance and menstrual irregularities.
Common Side Effects of Unwanted 72
Most women experience temporary symptoms that resolve within a few days. Common side effects include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Mild abdominal cramps
- Fatigue or weakness
- Dizziness
These are caused by a sudden hormone surge. If vomiting occurs within 2 hours, the pill may not work, and a repeat dose may be required after consulting a doctor. To know how it impacts your ovulation, read our guide on Ovulation and Fertility.
Short-Term Side Effects
Unwanted 72 can temporarily affect the menstrual cycle due to a change in hormone levels. Short-term side effects include:
- Irregular Periods: Periods may come earlier or later than usual for 1 to 2 cycles.
- Heavy or Light Bleeding: Some women notice spotting between cycles or heavy flow during periods.
- Mood Changes: Hormonal shifts can cause mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or sadness.
Long-Term Side Effects of Frequent Use
Using Unwanted 72 more than two times a month is unsafe. Frequent use may lead to:
- Severe Hormonal Imbalance: Disrupted ovulation patterns may interfere with regular menstrual cycles.
- Delayed Periods for Several Months: Cycles may become unpredictable or prolonged.
- Increased Risk of Ectopic Pregnancy: A rare but serious situation where a fertilized egg may attach outside the uterus.
- Reduced Accuracy of Fertility Timing: Women planning pregnancy later may struggle to track ovulation due to cycle irregularity.
Important: Unwanted 72 does not cause permanent infertility, but repeated use can disrupt ovulation long enough to make conception difficult temporarily.
Does Unwanted 72 Affect Future Pregnancy?
Current medical research shows that emergency pills do not damage the uterus or affect egg quality, so long-term fertility is not harmed. However, if ovulation timing gets disturbed repeatedly, planning pregnancy becomes difficult without medical guidance.
Women trying to conceive after frequent emergency pill use may require:
- Hormone testing
- Ovulation assessment
- Fertility counselling
Genesis IVF Clinic provides specialized evaluation for cycle irregularities caused by hormonal medications. We also offer advanced treatments such as sperm washing for IUI to improve fertility success.
Who Should Avoid Emergency Pills?
Unwanted 72 should be avoided or used only under supervision by women who have:
- PCOS or hormonal disorders
- Migraine with aura
- Blood clot risk
- Liver problems
- Irregular cycles due to thyroid issues
Women with these conditions may require safer, regular contraceptive methods.
Safe Alternatives to Emergency Contraception
Instead of frequent emergency pill use, safer options include:
- Copper IUD (protection for up to 10 years)
- Regular contraceptive pills
- Barrier methods such as condoms
Genesis IVF specialists can recommend a personalized contraception plan depending on age, cycle, hormones, and future pregnancy goals.
When to Consult a Doctor?
Seek medical help if you experience:
- Periods delayed beyond 30 to 35 days
- Severe abdominal pain
- Heavy bleeding with clots
- Persistent irregular cycles for more than 3 months
- Symptoms of pregnancy after pill usage
Genesis IVF offers diagnostic consultation to evaluate menstrual and fertility impacts safely.
FAQs
- Does Unwanted 72 affect fertility?
No permanent infertility risk, but repeated use disturbs ovulation temporarily. - Can I get pregnant after taking Unwanted 72?
Yes. If taken late or vomiting occurs, pregnancy is possible. - Can I take Unwanted 72 during periods?
It is usually unnecessary but safe. Ovulation rarely occurs during periods. - How many times can I take Unwanted 72 in a month?
Not more than once. Avoid more than two times in a month. - Does Unwanted 72 delay periods?
Yes. Hormonal imbalance can delay cycles by 1 to 3 weeks.
Conclusion
Unwanted 72 is safe when used correctly, but it must not become a habit. Frequent usage affects hormones, ovulation, and menstrual cycles. If irregularities persist, consulting a fertility expert ensures future pregnancy is not affected.