Emergency contraception (EC), also known as the "Morning After" pill and by the brand name Plan B is taken to prevent pregnancy within three days of having unprotected sex. It is an over-the-counter medication but we also provide it at Women's Health for lower cost and convenience to students. Please see below for more information.

It consists of two pills containing the hormone progestin, one of the hormones used in birth control pills (though at a higher dose in Plan B). The sooner the medication is taken, the more effective it is in preventing pregnancy. It is intended to 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.

There are two ways to take Plan B. Package labeling advises women to take the first pill right away and then take the second pill 12 hours later. However there have been several large studies that show it is equally effective if both doses are taken at the same time. Women who do not get a regular period within 3 weeks of taking Plan B 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 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 Plan B disrupts the natural hormone patterns necessary for pregnancy. Plan B 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. Plan B 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, but the sooner it is taken, the better. 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 Plan B 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 Plan B 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! Plan B is a non-prescription (over-the-counter) medication for anyone over the age of 18 years. Under 18 years of age, Plan B 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 Plan B.

Emergency contraception is also available at Student Health for a discounter price of $25. 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. 

***For a limited time Plan B is available at SHS for free! Please make an appointment to get this free medication.

Women who have specific questions about how to use contraception, including Plan B, 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.