Emergency Contraceptive (Plan B/Morning After Pill)

What is Plan B?

  • Plan B Emergency Contraception is a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy after sex.

Consider using Plan B if:

  • You didn’t use a contraceptive during sex
  • You think your contraceptive didn’t work

How does Plan B work?
Plan B Emergency Contraceptive pills contain the same medication as regular birth control pills, and help to prevent pregnancy. Take Plan B as soon as possible. It is best to take Plan B within three days of unprotected sex. The sooner you take Plan B the more effective it is. For more information talk to your pharmacist or practitioner.

Who should NOT take Plan B?

  • Plan B should not be taken if you are already pregnant or if you are allergic to any ingredient in Plan B.
  • Do not use Plan B if you have unexplained vaginal bleeding.

Is it safe and will it work? What will it do?

  • Plan B is safe and effective.
  • Plan B reduces the risk of pregnancy by 89 percent.
  • Plan B does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Plan B won’t cause an abortion.
  • Plan B is NOT the same as RU-486 (the abortion pill).
  • Plan B is not effective after pregnancy has occurred and cannot interrupt it.
  • Plan B won’t harm a developing fetus.
  • If Plan B is taken mistakenly during pregnancy, it will not harm the developing fetus.
  • Using Plan B will not affect a woman’s ability to become pregnant in the future.

    Women can keep pills at home in case of an emergency. Many women find it convenient to have Plan B on hand in case of an emergency. Plan B is for emergency use and should not be used in place of regular contraception since it is not as effective as regular contraception. Store Plan B at controlled room temperature (68˚-77˚F). Excursions permitted between 59˚-86˚F. Be sure to have a medical follow-up after taking Plan B. If you don’t get a normal period within three weeks, take a pregnancy test. It is important to visit your doctor or clinic if you need a regular birth control method or information about preventing sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV/AIDS.