Commonly known as “Plan B,” “Next Choice,” "ella," or “the morning after pill”

About Emergency Contraception:

Emergency contraception is NOT the same as abortion. Instead, EC prevents a conception of pregnancy. Since sperm can remain active in the body for up to 5 days, EC reduces risk of pregnancy by preventing ovulation (the releasing of an egg from the ovaries). If ovulation has already begun and pregnancy occurs, EC will not work, and you will remain pregnant.

Women and men over the age of 17 can purchase most EC brands (Plan-B and Next Choice) over-the-counter, at a local pharmacy, without a prescription. Women under 17 can obtain EC through their health care provider. ella is an emergency contraceptive available by prescription only.

EC can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected intercourse!

You should consider taking Emergency Contraception if:

1) You used a condom, but it broke or slipped off
2) You did not use birth control or you forgot to take your birth control pills, patch, or ring on time
3) You are on antibiotics/medications that could decrease the effectiveness of your birth control
4) Your partner suggested that “pulling out” was a safe method of protection from pregnancy. (“Pulling out” will NOT protect you from pregnancy. “Pre-cum” contains semen which is released during early stages of arousal, far before ejaculation.)
5) You were forced to have unprotected intercourse

How to use Emergency Contraception:

1) Purchase and take EC as soon as possible after unprotected sex. Sooner is better, though you may take EC up to 5 days after intercourse. Follow the instructions that come with your EC. For most brands, simply take one or two pills at one time.

2) Since some women get slightly nauseous when taking EC, we recommend taking anti-nausea medication before taking EC.

3) After taking EC, your period may be slightly irregular. It may be later or earlier than expected, or you may notice spotting throughout the month. This is common. If you do not get a regular period after three weeks of taking EC, take a pregnancy test. Contact your local Summit Center about free walk-in pregnancy testing.