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Do antibiotics affect the morning after pill?

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 29, 2023.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Most antibiotics don't affect contraception or emergency contraception (morning after pill). It's now thought that the only types of antibiotic that interact with hormonal contraception and make it less effective are rifampicin-like antibiotics.

These can be used to treat or prevent diseases, including tuberculosis and meningitis and include rifampicin and rifabutin.

Other antibiotics do not make hormonal birth control less effective.

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If you have had to take Plan B as an emergency contraceptive, you may be wondering if it has worked. While research shows it has an efficacy rate of 89% when used correctly, how easy is it to tell if it has worked for you? The easiest way to know that it hasn’t worked are a missed period and a positive pregnancy test. Continue reading

It is typically less painful to get your Mirena IUD removed than it is to get it inserted but for a few hours or days after the removal you may experience some light pain and bleeding, cramping, or feel dizzy. An IUD removal typically takes about 5 minutes, but you should allow 20 minutes for the whole appointment. Consider eating something before your appointment so you are less likely to feel dizzy, and take some painkillers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen one hour before to help with any pain. Most women can go straight back to work or study or usual activities after the IUD is taken out. Continue reading

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