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Understanding Emergency Contraception (EC)
Emergency Contraception (EC), also called the “morning after pill”, is a safe, effective back up method of birth control that can prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or a contraception failure. EC is not an abortion, but a prevention of pregnancy that works the same way as birth control pills. Some of the reasons that a woman might use EC are:
A woman who has or intends to have more than one sexual partner
A woman whose partner has or may have more than one partner
A woman who has a new partner
A woman who has been raped
A woman whose partner has or may have more than one partner
A woman who has a new partner
A woman who has been raped
IUD for Emergency Contraception
Within one week of unprotected intercourse, an Intrauterine Device (IUD) can be used to prevent pregnancy. An IUD is a small device that is inserted through the cervix and placed in the uterus. Copper IUDs affect the uterine lining, making the uterus hostile to sperm and preventing fertilization and implantation. Getting an IUD requires a clinic visit. Call your health provider for more information.
Using and Comparing Different Emergency Contraception Brands
The first dose of EC is taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse. The second dose is taken 12 hours later. EC may be taken after 72 hours, but its effectiveness is much lower.
Plan B is one brand of EC. It has two progesterone pills. Birth control pills that have both estrogen and progesterone can also be used for EC. Choose only one type of pill to take for EC. The chart below contains the dosage information for some common brands of birth control pills. Some birth control packages have several different colors. It is important to take the exact color on this chart. Brands not listed have not been tested for their effectiveness.
Plan B is one brand of EC. It has two progesterone pills. Birth control pills that have both estrogen and progesterone can also be used for EC. Choose only one type of pill to take for EC. The chart below contains the dosage information for some common brands of birth control pills. Some birth control packages have several different colors. It is important to take the exact color on this chart. Brands not listed have not been tested for their effectiveness.
After taking EC, your next menstrual period should begin within 2 or 3 weeks. After two weeks, you can take a pregnancy test. If your period does not come within 3 weeks or if you are pregnant, visit your clinic.
Taking birth control pills after EC:
Taking birth control pills after EC:
Start a new pack of pills on the first day of your menstrual period or on the Sunday after the first day of your period. Take one pill every day.
Get More Information
Find out the answers to common questions through our EC Frequently Asked Questions
Learn about the effectiveness and different types of Birth Control Options available
Book An Appointment or Contact us at anytime at 1-800-616-2383 or 205-556-2026 so that we can help your unique needs
Learn about the effectiveness and different types of Birth Control Options available
Book An Appointment or Contact us at anytime at 1-800-616-2383 or 205-556-2026 so that we can help your unique needs
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