Emergency Contraception Pills
How do I use it?
You can use Emergency Contraception pills if something went wrong with your method or you didn’t use one during sex and want to prevent pregnancy. Depending on the type you get, you can use it for up to 3 or 5 days after unprotected sex. There are two types of Emergency Contraception pills: One that contains Ulipristal acetate (ella®) and others that contain Levonorgestrel like Plan B®. Emergency Contraception does not cause an abortion.
How effective is it?
Depending on the type you get, Emergency Contraception pills are 97-99% effective if you take them within 72 hours after unprotected sex. They are more effective the sooner you take them.
What I might like...
- Plan B® and other Emergency Contraception pills with Levonorgestrel are available over-the-counter at pharmacies and drugstores
- You can buy the over-the-counter pills ahead of time and save them for when you need them
What I might dislike...
- Your body weight might make Emergency Contraception pills less effective. Talk with your provider about what type of pill is best for you if your BMI is over 30.
- You might get spotting, cramping, nausea, headaches, fatigue or dizziness with the pills the first few days
- Your next period after taking Emergency Contraception might be unpredictable. It could be heavier.
- You won't be protected from STIs
