You just took Plan B and now you’re anxiously waiting to see if it worked. One of the first questions that might pop into your head is: “Can Plan B even affect a pregnancy test?”. It’s a common concern, and understanding how Plan B and pregnancy tests work can help ease your worries.
Plan B: What it Does and Doesn’t Do
Plan B, also known as the morning-after pill, is an emergency contraceptive. It contains a higher dose of the hormone levonorgestrel than regular birth control pills. This hormone works primarily by delaying ovulation. If taken before ovulation, Plan B can significantly reduce the chances of pregnancy.
Here’s what you need to understand:
- Plan B does not terminate an existing pregnancy. If you’re already pregnant, Plan B will not harm the developing embryo.
- Plan B doesn’t provide ongoing protection from pregnancy. You’ll need to use other forms of contraception for future acts of intercourse.
Plan B Pills
Pregnancy Tests: Detecting the Pregnancy Hormone
Pregnancy tests, whether urine or blood tests, work by detecting the presence of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Your body only produces hCG after a fertilized egg implants in your uterus.
Key Points:
- hCG takes time to build up in your system. Even if you are pregnant, you likely won’t have detectable levels of hCG immediately after conception.
- Most pregnancy tests recommend waiting at least one to two weeks after unprotected sex before testing for accurate results.
Negative Pregnancy Test
Can Plan B Cause a False Positive Pregnancy Test?
Here’s the good news: Plan B itself cannot directly cause a positive pregnancy test. Plan B doesn’t contain any hCG, and it doesn’t affect the way your body produces hCG.
However, there are a few reasons why you might get a positive pregnancy test after taking Plan B:
- You were already pregnant before taking Plan B. As mentioned earlier, Plan B doesn’t work if you’re already pregnant.
- You ovulated shortly after taking Plan B, and you conceived. While Plan B is effective, it’s not foolproof.
- You’re taking a different medication that could affect the test. Some medications, such as fertility drugs, can contain hCG and lead to a false positive.
- The test is a false positive. While rare, false-positive pregnancy tests can happen. This is often due to user error or a problem with the test itself.
What Should You Do if You Get a Positive Test After Plan B?
If you get a positive pregnancy test after taking Plan B, it’s essential to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can perform a blood test to confirm the pregnancy and discuss your options.
Doctor Patient Consultation
FAQs about Plan B and Pregnancy Tests
1. When can I take a pregnancy test after taking Plan B?
For the most accurate result, wait at least one to two weeks after unprotected sex.
2. Can stress from taking Plan B affect a pregnancy test?
Stress itself doesn’t directly impact hCG levels or pregnancy tests.
3. How effective is Plan B?
Plan B is most effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, but it can be taken up to 5 days afterward. The sooner you take it, the better.
4. Can I take two doses of Plan B in a row?
It’s not recommended to take more than one dose of Plan B within a short period. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns.
5. What are other emergency contraceptive options besides Plan B?
There are other emergency contraceptive options available, including a copper IUD.
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