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Emergency Contraception

If you’ve recently had unprotected sex or the condom broke, you might be feeling anxious about the possibility of pregnancy.

Emergency contraception is any type of birth control used after unprotected intercourse or a known or suspected contraceptive failure (e.g. a broken condom) to attempt to prevent pregnancy.

Commonly sold as Plan B One-Step and ella®, these emergency contraceptives may reduce the chance of pregnancy. These medications are reported to work in several possible ways: Delaying ovulation, blocking sperm from joining with an egg, or preventing a fertilized egg from implanting – some may consider this a very early abortion.1,2,3,4

Emergency contraception does not prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and there are potential risks and side effects to be considered.4

To learn more about emergency contraception, its risks, & side effects, schedule your confidential appointment.

WHAT IS THE MORNING-AFTER PILL?

The morning-after pill is a form of emergency contraception. Emergency contraception is any type of birth control used after unprotected intercourse or a known or suspected contraceptive failure (e.g. a broken condom) to attempt to prevent pregnancy. One of the most common ones is a pill called Plan B One-Step®.

How well does the morning-after pill work?
Not as well as was originally advertised. It is intended for use within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse.1,2 Studies done since it was released over the counter, say that “it is more effective than nothing.”3

Should I take the morning-after pill?
You can only become pregnant on certain days of the month, around the time that you ovulate. Taking the morning-after pill during a time when you cannot become pregnant needlessly exposes you to a large dose of hormones and costs you money.

If you are already pregnant from an earlier sexual encounter, taking the morning-after pill is of no value and may cause unpleasant side effects.4

Can the morning-after pill cause an abortion?
Taking Plan B One-Step® after fertilization has taken place may prevent the newly formed life from settling into the uterus and continuing to grow, which some consider a form of early abortion.5,6,7

What are the side effects and risks?
Like any medication, risks and side effects are not the same for everyone who takes the morning-after pill. Plan B One-Step® can cause nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, heavier menstrual bleeding, and dizziness.8

NOTE: We offer accurate information about all your pregnancy options; however, we do not offer or refer for abortion services. The information presented on this website is intended for general education purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.