There is no doubt that the most effective way to prevent unplanned pregnancy is to use birth control before having sex. However, occasionally, women find themselves in a situation where they need a back up method after unprotected sex. Maybe the condom broke… or you realized you forgot to take your pill yesterday… or you got back with an ex-boyfriend before you restarted your birth control. Things like this happen. Now, there is a birth control designed for use after unprotected sex. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about Plan B…
How does Plan B (emergency contraception) work?
Plan B contains levonorgestrel, the same hormone found in some birth control pills but at a slightly higher dose. It prevents pregnancy in one of two ways…
1. Keeps the egg from leaving the ovary.
2. Keeps the sperm from meeting the egg.
How can I get Plan B?
If you are over 18 years old, you can ask for it at your local pharmacy. You don’t need a prescription. If you are under 18, ask your doctor for a prescription that you can have with you at home in case you need it.
How do I take Plan B?
Each pack of Plan B contains 2 pills. You take both pills at the same time as soon as possible after unprotected sex. You can take Plan B up to 5 days after unprotected sex but it works best the SOONER you take it.
How well does Plan B work?
If 100 women take Plan B after unprotected sex during the fertile part of their cycle, fewer than 8 will get pregnant. Your chances that Plan B will work are higher the sooner you take it after unprotected sex.
What happens if I get pregnant after taking Plan B?
Plan B does not harm a pregnancy or cause birth defects. If you are pregnant after taking Plan B, see your doctor right away to discuss your options.
Does Plan B cause abortion?
No. Plan B has no effect if you are already pregnant. It prevents pregnancy by keeping the egg from leaving the ovary or by keeping the sperm from meeting the egg.
Can I use Plan B as my primary birth control?
It is not harmful to take Plan B multiple times. However, it is far more effective to prevent pregnancy by using many other forms of birth control before you have sex. Your doctor can help you figure out which birth control might be best for you.
by: Angela Dempsey, M.D.
Request an appointment with a MUSC provider.