Emergency contraceptive pills — Postinor-1 and Postinor-2 available in Sri Lanka
Emergency contraceptive pills (levonorgestrel) — widely available at pharmacies in Sri Lanka without a prescription.
Dr. Seneth Gajasingha, MBBS MD
Written & Reviewed by
MBBS (Col) · MD (Col) · SLMC No. 27329 · Medical Director, Sineth Hospitals
🩺 Medically Reviewed 📅 Updated March 2026 🕐 5 min read
💊 Overview

What is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception is used after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. It is not a regular contraceptive method — it is intended only for unexpected situations.

In Sri Lanka, the most commonly used emergency contraceptive pills are Postinor-1 and Postinor-2, both containing levonorgestrel. They are widely available at pharmacies without a prescription.

💡
Key Point Emergency contraception prevents pregnancy from starting. It does not end an existing pregnancy and is not an abortion pill. Earlier use is always more effective.
⏰ When to Use

When Should You Use It?

You may need emergency contraception if any of the following apply:

  • 🔓You had sex without using any contraception
  • ⚠️A condom broke, slipped, or leaked
  • 💊You forgot to take your regular contraceptive pills
  • ❓You are not sure your contraception worked properly
  • 🆘You experienced sexual assault
⏱️
Take it as soon as possible — earlier is better. The effectiveness decreases significantly the longer you wait. Do not delay.
🇱🇰 Most Common in Sri Lanka

Emergency Contraceptive Pills — Postinor-1 & Postinor-2

Levonorgestrel is the most commonly used emergency contraceptive in Sri Lanka. It is available under two brand names — Postinor-1 (single tablet) and Postinor-2 (two tablets).

Where and How to Buy

These pills are available at most pharmacies across Sri Lanka — in cities and rural areas. They are usually sold without a prescription.

How to Take

Brand Dose Instructions Time Limit
Postinor-1 1.5 mg levonorgestrel
(1 tablet)		 Take 1 tablet all at once, as soon as possible Within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex
Postinor-2 0.75 mg × 2 tablets Take first tablet immediately, then the second tablet 12 hours later
Or both tablets together (same total dose)
ℹ️
Both Postinor-1 and Postinor-2 contain the same total dose of levonorgestrel (1.5 mg). The difference is only in how the dose is split. Either option is equally effective when taken correctly.
🔬 Mechanism

How It Works

Emergency contraceptive pills work mainly by delaying ovulation — postponing the release of an egg so that sperm cannot fertilise it. They do not end an existing pregnancy.

🥚 Delays egg release (ovulation)
🚫 Does NOT end an existing pregnancy
⚡ Works best within 24 hours
📉 Effectiveness reduces with time

How Effective Is It?

When taken within 24 hours, levonorgestrel is highly effective — estimated to prevent around 95% of pregnancies that would otherwise have occurred. Effectiveness decreases to approximately 85% at 48 hours and 58% at 72 hours. This is why acting quickly matters.

⚠️ Side Effects

Side Effects

Side effects are usually mild and short-lived. You may experience:

🤢 Nausea
🤮 Vomiting
😵 Dizziness
🩹 Breast tenderness
📅 Early or late next period
😴 Tiredness

These side effects usually settle on their own within a day or two and do not require treatment.

🤮
If you vomit within 2–3 hours of taking the pill: take the dose again. Vomiting soon after the pill means it may not have been absorbed properly.
💊 Alternative Option

Ulipristal

Ulipristal acetate is another emergency contraceptive pill that can be used up to 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sex. It is more effective than levonorgestrel in the later time window.

⚠️
Availability in Sri Lanka: Ulipristal is not widely available in Sri Lanka and may be difficult to find at pharmacies. Levonorgestrel (Postinor-1 or Postinor-2) remains the practical first choice.
🔩 Most Effective Option

Copper IUCD (Intrauterine Device)

The copper IUCD (often called the "loop") is the most effective form of emergency contraception. It can be inserted by a doctor within 5 days of unprotected sex and is highly reliable.

An added benefit: once inserted, the copper IUCD can remain in place as a long-term regular contraceptive method for several years.

🏥
The copper IUCD must be inserted by a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. If you are interested in this option, contact a gynaecologist or family planning clinic as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
❗ Important

Important Things to Understand

❗
This is NOT a regular contraceptive Emergency contraception should be used only in genuine emergencies — not as a routine method. It is less reliable than regular contraception and is not designed for repeated use.
❗
This is NOT an abortion pill Emergency contraceptive pills prevent pregnancy from starting by delaying ovulation. They do not end a pregnancy that has already been established.
❗
No protection from infections Emergency contraception does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. If you are concerned about STI exposure, see a doctor for assessment.
🏥 Seek Medical Attention

When Should You See a Doctor?

  • 📅Your period is more than 1 week late after taking emergency contraception
  • 🩺You have severe abdominal pain (may indicate ectopic pregnancy — seek urgent attention)
  • ❓You have any concerns or doubts about effectiveness
  • 🔁You find yourself needing emergency contraception repeatedly — speak to a doctor about regular contraception options
  • 🆘You experienced sexual assault — medical care, counselling and STI assessment are available
🗺️ Quick Reference

Quick Decision Guide

Use this guide after unprotected sex to choose the right step quickly.

1
Had unprotected sex? → Act immediately. Do not wait.
↓
2
Within 3 days (72 hours) of unprotected sex? → Take Postinor-1 or Postinor-2. Available at most pharmacies without a prescription. Earlier is better — take it as soon as possible.
↓
3
Between 3 and 5 days (72–120 hours)? → Consider a copper IUCD (inserted by a doctor) — the most effective option at this stage. Ulipristal is an alternative if available.
↓
4
More than 5 days have passed, or your period is late? → Do a pregnancy test and see a doctor.
❓ FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Levonorgestrel pills (Postinor-1 and Postinor-2) are available at most pharmacies in Sri Lanka without a prescription.
Postinor-1 contains 1.5 mg of levonorgestrel in a single tablet — take it all at once. Postinor-2 contains 0.75 mg in each of two tablets — take the first immediately and the second 12 hours later (or both together for the same total dose). Both are equally effective when taken correctly.
No. Emergency contraception prevents pregnancy from starting by delaying ovulation. It does not end an existing pregnancy and is not an abortion pill. If you are already pregnant, it will have no effect on the pregnancy.
As soon as possible. The sooner you take it, the more effective it is. Levonorgestrel is most effective within 24 hours and can be used up to 72 hours (3 days). After 72 hours, effectiveness drops significantly.
No. It is designed for emergency use only and is less effective than regular contraceptive methods. Using it regularly is not recommended and does not protect you reliably. Talk to a doctor about regular contraception options that suit your needs.
No. Emergency contraceptive pills and the copper IUCD do not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. If you are concerned about STI exposure, see a doctor for assessment and testing.