Did the condom break or did you have sex without using a method of birth control?
Emergency contraception which is known as “EC” or the “morning after pill” can help prevent pregnancy after you have sex. It contains the same kinds of medication that are in regular birth control pills. If you are 16 or younger or don’t have money to buy ECs, you can get ECs free at a clinic.
If you are 17 or older, in California you can get it without a prescription from your local pharmacy. Call ahead or check this website EC-Help.org to make sure your local pharmacy carries EC.
When should you take Emergency Contraception?
As soon as possible! The sooner you take it, the better it works to prevent pregnancy. It can be taken up to 5 days after unprotected sex. It works the best to prevent pregnancy if taken within 24 hours after unprotected sex. This is why it is good to get EC in advance so it can be taken if and when it is needed.
Learn more about Emergency Contraception: