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Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception (specifically Plan B One-Step) is now available without prescription if you are age 17 years or older, or by prescription otherwise. See How can I get EC?

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What is emergency contraception (EC)?  EC, also called the "morning after pill," helps prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or the failure of a regular method of birth control. It is most effective the sooner it is taken after unprotected sex (most effective within the first 12-24 hours), but research has shown it may still be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex. EC:

  • Is not an abortion pill (RU-486)
  • Is not effective if you are already pregnant
  • Does not offer protection from HIV or other sexually transmitted infections
  • Is intended for emergencies, so plan to use a reliable, routine method of contraception

You might consider taking EC if:

  • You didn't use a condom or other reliable method of birth control
  • The condom broke or slipped off
  • You had sex and missed two or more birth control pills this cycle
  • You were sexually assaulted and currently not using a reliable method of contraception (see the UM Sexual Assault Survivor website for resources and information)

Comparison of EC methods available at UHS:

  Plan B One-Step™ Next Choice® ella®
Females who could use this product If you are age 17 or older If you are age 16 or younger If more than 72 hours (3 days) since unprotected sex, or if you are age 16 or younger
How available at pharmacies Available without prescription if you are age 17 or older (read more) Available by prescription only; you must visit a health care provider to get a prescription (read more)
How it works High levels of hormone progestin stop or delay ovulation; may also interfere with fertilization of egg, transport of embryo or implantation Medication (ulipristal) delays ovulation; may also prevent implantation
Number of doses required 1 dose 2 doses 1 dose
When to take it after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure Take as soon as possible within 3 days (72 hours) Take first dose as soon as possible within 3 days (72 hours). Take second dose 12 hours later. (Alternatively, both doses may be taken at the time of the first dose.) Take as soon as possible within five days (120 hours).
Side effects Rare; nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, menstrual changes

How can I get EC?  You need to go to a pharmacy to get EC, and most pharmacies, including the UHS Pharmacy, carry EC.

Without prescription: If you are 17 or older, you can buy Plan B® One-Step over-the-counter (without prescription). It can be purchased by both males and females. Proof of age is required (you need to show a government-issued ID, e.g. passport, driver's license; UM ID is not acceptable). There is no limit to the quantity that can be purchased at one time.

By prescription: Women need a prescription for Next choice and ella. (They are not available to men.)  Schedule an Appointment to get a prescription.  You can also get EC in advance (you don't have to wait for an emergency to get it).

Cost: At UHS, cost for over-the-counter EC is $40 (subject to change). If a clinic visit is needed, clinic visits are free for currently enrolled UM students. Others pay fee-for-service or use billable insurance.

How effective is EC?  If taken as prescribed, EC can reduce the risk of pregnancy by at least 75% and up to 89%. The sooner EC is taken after unprotected sex, the more effective it is.

Possible reasons for EC failure are:

  • Ovulation has occurred
  • Too much time elapsed between unprotected sex and use of EC
  • You are already pregnant

You should not take EC if:

  • You are pregnant, because it won't work and you will remain pregnant (however there are no known birth defects caused by EC if it is accidentally taken during pregnancy)
  • You are allergic to levonorgestrel (hormone), ulipristal (medication) or any other EC ingredients
  • You are breastfeeding (specifically not advised with ella)

How to take EC:

The sooner EC is taken, the more effective it is, so take EC as soon as possible. Follow package directions. Eating a snack or drinking a glass of milk can help reduce nausea.

You should have a menstrual period within three weeks after taking EC. If you do not have your period within three weeks, you should have a pregnancy test. UHS provides Pregnancy Tests.

Begin using a reliable, routine method of contraception as soon as possible. Also, remember to protect yourself from HIV and other sexually transmitted infections by using a condom each time you have sex.

Resources on EC:

Related resources from UHS: