Should I Consider Taking Another Plan B?
Profile: - Age: 22 years - Gender: Female - Height: 5 feet 10 inches - Weight: 160 pounds - Ethnicity: Black Complaint Duration: Today Medical History: No relevant conditions Current Medications: None I administered a Plan B pill, and shortly after, about 40 minutes later, while brushing my teeth, I expectorated some phlegm that I felt at the back of my throat. I perform this routine daily when brushing my tongue. Is this a concern? I didn't experience vomiting at any point.
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 8:30:33 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're feeling uncertain after taking the Plan B pill, especially given your recent experience of expectorating phlegm shortly after. Let's clarify the situation.
Main Points:
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Plan B Effectiveness: Plan B (levonorgestrel) works best when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours. If you took it within this timeframe and haven't experienced vomiting, the medication is likely effective.
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Expectorating Phlegm: Expectoration of phlegm, especially from brushing your teeth, isn't typically a sign that affects the efficacy of Plan B. It doesn't indicate that you vomited, which would decrease the effectiveness of the pill.
Explanation:
When you brush your tongue, it's common to trigger a gag reflex that can cause you to expel mucus or phlegm. This does not affect the dosage of Plan B you took. Vomiting within two hours of taking the pill is the usual concern because, in that case, the medication might not be fully absorbed into your body.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any new symptoms. If you notice unusual changes, such as prolonged nausea or vomiting, then that would be a time to reassess.
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Avoid Taking Another Plan B: Since you did not vomit after taking Plan B (which is the only situation that would necessitate taking another dose), you should not take another Plan B pill. Doing so can lead to unnecessary side effects and hormone imbalance.
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Follow-up Care: If your period is more than a week late or you have concerns about potential pregnancy, consider taking a pregnancy test a week after your expected period date for clarity.
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Seek Support: If you have continued anxiety about this or any persistent health concerns, consider discussing your feelings with a healthcare provider who can offer personalized advice.
Remember, your health and peace of mind are important! Let me know if there’s anything more you would like to discuss about this situation.
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