| How can I get EC? Most
pharmacies, including the UHS
Pharmacy, carry Plan B.
If you are 18 or older, you can buy Plan
B 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 will not be accepted). There is no limit to the quantity
that can be purchased at one time.
If you are under age 18, Plan B requires
a prescription. If your concern is urgent, walk in during UHS
open hours for an EC prescription. You can also get EC in
advance (you don't have to wait for an emergency to get it).
Cost for over-the-counter EC is $25. If a clinic visit is needed,
clinic visits are free for currently enrolled UM students. Others visit UHS on a fee-for-service basis
or through billable insurance.
How does EC work? The high levels of hormones found in EC stop
or delay ovulation. The pills may also interfere with fertilization of the egg, transport of the embryo, and
implantation in the uterus.
EC is not RU-486 (the abortion pill) and does not cause an abortion. If you are already pregnant, EC will not work,
and you will remain pregnant. There are no known birth defects caused by EC if it is accidentally taken during
pregnancy.
EC is intended for emergencies. Plan to use a reliable, routine method of contraception. EC does not protect
against sexually transmitted infections.
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 occured
- Too much time elapsed between unprotected sex and your use of EC
- You are already pregnant
Side effects of Plan B
are rare. They may include nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache,
and menstrual changes.
You should not take EC if:
- You are pregnant
- You are allergic to levonorgestrel (the hormone contained in Plan B EC)
- You have had vaginal bleeding more than once within a three-week time period
How to take EC Most
often, the pills are taken in two doses. Take the first dose as
soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours of sex, and the second
dose 12 hours later. Alternatively, studies indicate that you can
take both pills at the time of the first dose. Eat a snack or drink
a glass of milk to reduce nausea.
You should have a menstrual period within three weeks of 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 regular 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
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