Emergency contraception (EC) is a broad term that refers to any type of contraception that is used after unprotected sex (when either protection wasn't used or it didn't work i.e. the condom broke). EC includes the morning-after pill and intrauterine devices (IUDs).
EC can
be very
effective.
IUDs are 99% effective at preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex but they need to be inserted by a healthcare professional within 5 days.
The morning-after pill is 89% effective when taken within 72 hours and can be found at Walmart, other retail pharmacies, or online. No prescription or ID is required.
Is using EC common?
Yes! 24.3% of women 22–49 years who have had sexual intercourse have used emergency contraception.
Safely prevent a pregnancy before it starts with emergency contraception.
The morning-after pill is easy to find and take.
The morning-after pill (like Plan B or Julie) helps stop a pregnancy before it starts by preventing ovulation.
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One-step pill
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No prescription, ID, or credit card needed
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Legal in all 50 states
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89% effective when used within 72 hours
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FDA approved since 1999
Important facts about
the morning-after pill
Timing matters: it’s 89% effective when taken within 72 hours but more effective the sooner you take it.
It won’t affect your ability to get pregnant in the future.
It’s okay to use it multiple times. There are no long-term side effects, however repeated use will not be as effective as regular birth control or other forms of contraception.
It’s not an abortion pill:
it cannot terminate or harm a pregnancy if you have already conceived.
The risk of pregnancy after taking the morning-after pill can be higher for women over 165 pounds
It’s safe when used as directed but there can be some short-term side effects such as changes in your period, nausea, lower stomach (abdominal) pain, tiredness, headache, dizziness, and breast tenderness.
Questions about ovulation, fertility, what to expect after taking the morning-after pill, and more?
We can help.
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