Did you forget to use a condom? Was there any penetration before you used a condom? Did the condom break? Are you worried that you did not take your birth control as required? Were you forced to have unprotected sex?
What is emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception (EC) is a type of birth control, and is sometimes called the 'morning after pill' or 'Plan B'. EC is taken after having sex to prevent pregnancy from happening. Emergency contraception is not abortion. In fact, if you are already pregnant, taking emergency contraception will not end or harm the pregnancy.
How does EC work?
EC can prevent pregnancy if taken within 5 days (120 hours) of unprotected sex, but the sooner you take it after sex, the better it works. If you answer yes to any of the questions above, and you want to prevent pregnancy, emergency contraception might be a good choice for you.
Who can get emergency contraception?
EC is generally available to those 17 years of age or older at pharmacies without a prescription. If you are younger than 17, getting EC may require a prescription depending on the state you live in.
Is EC safe?
Yes, emergency contraception is a safe method for preventing pregnancies. Again, if you are already pregnant, EC will not end or harm your pregnancy.
And all I have to do is take the pill?
Remember, EC does not prevent pregnancy for the rest of your menstrual cycle. After taking EC, you should get your period within 7-9 days. If you have sex before getting your period, use a condom every time.
What about STDs?
EC does not protect you against STDs. If you had unprotected sex, you should find a clinic and get tested for STDs.
Want more information?
Remember, EC is meant to be an emergency treatment, not a regular method of birth control. You should not use EC as your only way of preventing pregnancy. Talk to a your doctor about a regular method of birth control that is right for you.