Emergency Contraception (EC) is a set of two birth controlVoluntary limitation or control of the number of children conceived, especially by planned use of contraceptive techniques. pills that a woman can take after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. Emergency contraception is sometimes called the morning after pill, backup birth control, or by the brand name, "Plan B." It is a form of birth control, not abortion.
Accidents happen — that’s why we have the morning after pill. Did you have intercourse without using protection? Did you forget to use your birth control correctly? Did the condom break, leaving you worried about becoming pregnant? Or maybe it wasn't an accident — were you forced to have intercourse without protection? If so, Plan B might be a good choice for you. It is effective up to five days (120 hours) after unprotected intercourse.
EC prevents a pregnancy by stopping ovulation, fertilization or implantation. The hormones in the pills temporarily disrupt hormone production in the ovaries. EC will not affect an existing pregnancy and they will not cause an abortion. EC can be used right after unprotected sex or within 120 hours after unprotected sex, however the effectiveness increases the sooner they are taken. Although emergency contraception makes it much less likely you will get pregnant, it is not as effective as birth control that is used before or during sex.
Effectiveness:
Advantages:
- Anyone who is 17 or older can purchase EC over the counter at local pharmacies and all PPWP health centers without a prescription.
- No exam required.
Disadvantages:
- Nausea, breast tenderness, irregular bleeding, fluid retention, dizziness, headaches. These side effects subside within a day or two after taking both pills.
Availability:
- Emergency contraction is available at all PPWP health center sites.
- PPWP currently sells Plan B brand emergency contraception for $25. Individuals who are 17 or older with a photo ID (e.g. current driver’s license) can purchase emergency without an appointment during health center hours.
- Please contact our health centers for information on purchasing emergency contraception if you are under the age of 17. A prescription is required for anyone 16 or younger.
- A prescription may be obtained at any PPWP health care center.
