What is levonorgestrel?

Nov 02, 2021 Updated: Aug 28, 2025

Levonorgestrel is one of the longest-studied types of progestin which is the synthetic version of progesterone, a hormone made by the body. And all the scientific evidence to date shows it is super safe. It’s used in hormonal IUDs, some emergency contraception pills, and certain birth control pills.

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Select one of the related topics to find more.

IUD safety Mirena IUD combination birth control pill birth control effectiveness emergency contraception Skyla IUD hormonal IUD birth control pill
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Bedsider and Birth control

You deserve access to birth control that fits your body, your life and your plans. Since 2011, Bedsider has been a trusted source of medically reviewed birth control information—covering every method available in the U.S. with guides, real user reviews, side-by-side comparisons, and a clinic search to help you find care near you or online.

Related methods

Dive in and learn all the details about these related birth control methods.

birth control
IUD
Super effective, lasts for years, low-maintenance, and private (though some partners can feel the strings). You can choose hormonal or non-hormonal.
birth control
Birth control pill
Very effective if you use it correctly. Easy to use, but you have to remember to take it every day.
birth control
Emergency contraception
Emergency contraception (EC) provides the possibility of pregnancy prevention after the fact.