What is emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception (EC) is simply a higher concentration of the hormones found in regular birth control pills. EC can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse. It is often called the “morning after pill,” or by the brand name Plan B.
When should I consider taking emergency contraception pills?
EC can prevent pregnancy up to 120 hours (five days) after unprotected sex. However, the sooner it is taken, the better. When used within hours, EC reduces the risk of pregnancy by up to 95%.
You can take EC when:
• The condom breaks or comes off during sex
• You miss taking one or more pills this month, you’re late for your DepoProvera shot, or you have another problem with regular birth control
• You have unprotected sex or someone forces you to have sex
How does EC work?
It works just like regular birth control pills and prevents pregnancy in several ways: by delaying ovulation, preventing fertilization, and possibly by preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus (scientific research has not proven this happens).
EC does not cause an abortion – it actually reduces the need for abortion. EC is often confused with the “abortion pill” (mifepristone or RU-486), which is taken up to 9 weeks into pregnancy. If you are already pregnant, EC will not harm the fetus.
Remember: EC is helpful in preventing pregnancy but should not replace regular birth control. EC does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Always use a condom even if you use another form of contraception to prevent pregnancy.
How Safe is EC?
EC is extremely safe. Most women who cannot take oral contraceptives for birth control can take them for emergency contraception because they are used for a brief period of time.
EC has minimal side effects, the most common being nausea. These side effects are temporary and should last less than a day or two. It’s also normal for your next period to be a few days late or early and it may be heavier or lighter, or more spotty than usual. If you don’t get your period, take a pregnancy test.
How can I get EC?
If you are 18 or older, Plan B is available without a prescription if a pharmacy agrees to stock it. You’ll find it at the pharmacy counter and it requires an I.D. for proof of age. You can also get EC directly from your local Planned Parenthood and possibly your local health department or student health center.
In Kentucky, if you’re under 18 you must have a prescription for EC so call a doctor or local health clinic.
If I’m under 18 can I get EC without telling my parents?
In Kentucky – YES. But some doctors may require your parents’ consent before (or after) they give you a prescription – even though it is not required by law.
If you’re concerned about this, ask the doctor if the EC and appointment are confidential. If it’s not, ask for a referral to another doctor who will provide confidential services. Or, call 1-800-230-PLAN for the nearest Planned Parenthood health center. All Planned Parenthood health centers provide confidential services to teens.
What do I do if a pharmacist refuses to sell me EC?
38% of surveyed pharmacies in Kentucky refused to fill a prescription for EC, so it can happen to you. But remember:
• You are acting responsibly by looking for EC to avoid becoming pregnant.
• You have the right to be referred to another pharmacy/pharmacist if you are refused access – but remember, you must have a valid I.D.
• Your prescription belongs to you, and you have the right to have it returned to you.
• If a pharmacist refuses to provide EC or fill your prescription, contact the ACLU of Kentucky so we can help you file a complaint with the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy. Visit www.aclu-ky.org or call 502-581-9746.
Get EC before you need it!
Getting to a doctor or finding a pharmacy that carries EC is not always easy – especially nights, weekends, and holidays. Only 13% of pharmacies surveyed in Kentucky had EC in stock and ordering the medication can take 24 hours to a week. Always keep EC on hand.