When it comes to emergency contraception, timing is everything.
The sooner you take the morning-after pill, the better it works — but not all pills work the same way or for the same duration.
This guide explains when to take each type of pill, how long you have before it becomes less effective, and which option is best depending on your situation.
1. Why Timing Matters
Morning-after pills work mainly by delaying or preventing ovulation — stopping the egg from being released so sperm can’t fertilize it.
Once ovulation has already occurred, certain pills like Levonorgestrel-based ones (such as Victoria OneStep) may no longer work effectively.
That’s why it’s crucial to act fast — ideally within hours, not days.
2. Morning-After Pill Timing Chart
| Brand | Active Ingredient | Take Within | Best For | How It Works |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Victoria OneStep | Levonorgestrel 1.5mg | Up to 72 hours (3 days) | Acts quickly after sex | Delays or prevents ovulation |
| EllaOne | Ulipristal Acetate 30mg | Up to 120 hours (5 days) | When close to or during ovulation | Blocks progesterone to stop or delay egg release |
| Mifestad 10 | Mifepristone 10mg | Up to 120 hours (5 days) | For late protection or during ovulation | Blocks progesterone, making ovulation and implantation unlikely |
3. The “Sooner, The Better” Rule
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Within 12 hours: Best protection — over 95% effective when taken quickly.
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Within 24 hours: Still highly effective.
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Within 72 hours: Victoria OneStep still works well within this window.
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Up to 120 hours (5 days): EllaOne and Mifestad remain effective even when taken later.
If you’re not sure when you ovulated, it’s safer to take EllaOne or Mifestad, as both provide broader protection.
4. What If You Wait Too Long?
If it’s been more than 5 days (120 hours), emergency contraception pills may no longer work.
In that case, consult a doctor about copper IUD insertion — it’s the only emergency method effective up to 5–10 days after unprotected sex.
5. Key Takeaway
Take the morning-after pill as soon as possible for best results.
Here’s a quick summary:
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If it’s been less than 3 days, take Victoria OneStep.
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If you’re close to or already ovulating, or it’s been 3–5 days, take EllaOne or Mifestad.
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Don’t wait — every hour matters when it comes to preventing pregnancy.