Emergency contraception (EC) is simply regular birth control pills in higher doses. EC can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse, by delaying ovulation or preventing fertilization. You can get EC at Student Health.
When should EC be used?
EC can be used if:
the primary form of contraception fails,
if you have unplanned sex, or
if you are forced to have sex.
Commonly referred to as “the morning after pill,” EC is intended to be taken within 3 days (72 hours) of unprotected sex, but can be effective for as long as 5 days (120 hours) after intercourse. The sooner it is taken, the better. Used within 12 hours, EC reduces the risk of pregnancy by up to 99%. However, the risk of pregnancy approximately doubles with every 12 hour delay in EC treatment.
EC is helpful, but it should not replace regular birth control.
Emergency contraception can prevent most pregnancies that would result from unprotected intercourse, but it is still not as effective as other contraceptive methods, and does not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STI’s).
EC cannot cause an abortion.
If you are already pregnant, EC will not harm the fetus.
Where to get EC.
Student Health Services (SHS) offers EC. Call Women’s Health Services at Student Health for a same day appointment between 9-5, Monday-Friday. After hours and on weekends you can get EC through Urgent Care at 215-662-2852.
