What is it?

Emergency contraception (EC), also known as the "Morning After" pill, is taken to prevent pregnancy within 5 days of having unprotected vaginal sex. It is an over-the-counter medication but we also provide it at Women's Health for lower cost and convenience to students. "Next Choice" is the EC currently available at Women's Health.

"Next Choice" consists of two pills containing the hormone progestin, one of the hormones used in birth control pills (though at a higher dose in "Next Choice"). The sooner the medication is taken, the more effective it is in preventing pregnancy. Emergency contraception should be taken within 3 days of intercourse (72 hours) but can be taken up to 5 days afterwards (120 hours). The risk of pregnancy approximately doubles with every 12 hour delay in treatment.

Take the pills as soon as possible.  You  may want to take the pills with food as some patients experience mild nausea when taking EC.   Women who do not get a regular period within 3 weeks of taking EC are advised to come to Women's Health for a pregnancy test.

EC should be considered if you have had intercourse within the last 72-120 hours AND:

• Did not use any protection against pregnancy.
• The condom broke or slipped off.
• Started your birth control pills late or had more than 7 days between your pill packs.
• Missed two or more birth control pills.
• Are late for your Depo-Provera
• Did not know your sexual partner well and were afraid to say "no" or to ask him to use a condom.
• Were raped or forced to have sex. 

How Does EC Work?

The hormone in EC disrupts the natural hormone patterns necessary for pregnancy. "Next Choice" prevents pregnancy in several ways. It may temporarily stop the release of an egg from a woman’s ovary. It also thickens the cervical mucous, making it difficult for the sperm to get through and preventing fertilization of the egg by the sperm. Some evidence also suggests that the hormones change the lining of the uterus, preventing a fertilized egg from attaching. Emergency contraception does not work if you are already pregnant.

How Effective is EC?

EC is less effective than a continuous or pre-planned method of birth control, but it is the most effective method available after you have had unprotected intercourse. Overall, the risk of pregnancy after using emergency contraceptive pills is 2%. 

How is EC Taken?

EC is most effective within 3 days (72 hours) of unprotected intercourse; however, the sooner EC is taken after intercourse the more effective it is. Its effectiveness decreases after 72 hours.

Can Anyone Use EC?

The World Health Organization lists pregnancy as the only reason not to use EC. Your health care provider will take your blood pressure and get information about your last menstrual period; if this information indicates that you may already be pregnant, a pregnancy test will be performed. If the test is positive, EC will not be given.

Are There Any Side-Effects?

The most common side effect with "Next Choice" is nausea; it may be diminished by drinking milk or eating at the time you take your pills. Other temporary side effects may include abdominal pain, fatigue, mild headaches, and menstrual changes. You will not have a period immediately after EC. Your next period may be a few days earlier or later than you would normally expect it to be; it may also be heavier or lighter than usual. If you vomit within 1 hour of taking EC, you may need to repeat the dose (take it again). Please call Student Health Services if this occurs 215.746.3535.

Are There Any Serious Risks?

The hormone in "Next Choice" is extremely safe. No serious complications have been reported with this type of emergency contraception.

Can I Use EC as My Main Method of Birth Control?

NO! EC is for emergency use only and should not be used as a main method of birth control. EC does not prevent pregnancy as effectively as standard birth control methods. It also does not protect you from sexually transmitted infections. Condoms must be used to help protect against these infections. Providers at Women's Health are available to discuss with you all of your birth control options and help you choose the method that is best for you. 

Check-Up After Treatment

If you do not get a normal period in 3 weeks after taking EC, you need to schedule an appointment at Women’s Health. At this time, a pregnancy test may be performed to make sure EC worked and you are not pregnant. This is an excellent time to discuss birth control options. 

How Do I get EC?

Good news! "Next Choice" is a non-prescription (over-the-counter) medication for anyone at least 17 years old. To obtain EC at a pharmacy you must got to the pharmacy counter and ask for it.  If under 17 years of age, EC can only be obtained by a prescription. A government ID (such as driver's license, passport or military ID) is required to show proof of age.  Click here for a list of pharmacies that sell EC.

Emergency contraception is also available at Student Health for a discounted price of $15. Please call for a same-day appointment in Women's Health. In the evenings and on Saturdays call for an urgent care appointment in Primary Care (215.746.3535). However, at any time you can also buy it directly from the pharmacy.  Most area pharmacies now offer both "Next Choice" and "Plan B One Step" ("Plan B One Step" is one pill; "Next Choice" is a generic version of "Plan B" and consists of two pills)."

Women who have specific questions about how to use contraception, including EC, or who have been sexually assaulted, or are concerned about exposure to sexually transmitted infections, are encouraged to make an appointment at Women's Health at 215.746.3535.

For more information you can also call the National EC Hotline at: 1-888-NOT-2-LATE.