What is the morning-after pill?

The morning-after pill is a form of emergency contraception. Emergency contraception is any type of birth control used after unprotected intercourse or a known or suspected contraceptive failure (e.g. a broken condom) to attempt to prevent pregnancy. One of the most common ones is a pill called Plan B One-Step®.

How well does the morning-after pill work?

Not as well as was originally advertised. It is intended for use within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse.^1,2 Since it was first released over the counter, studies have reported that “it is more effective than nothing.”³

Should I take the morning-after pill?

You can only become pregnant on certain days of the month — around the time that you ovulate. Taking the morning-after pill during a time when you cannot become pregnant needlessly exposes you to a large dose of hormones and costs you money.

If you are already pregnant from an earlier sexual encounter, taking the morning-after pill is of no value and may cause unpleasant side effects.⁴

To find out if you are pregnant, contact us. We can give you information and schedule a free pregnancy test appointment.

Can the morning-after pill cause an abortion?

Taking Plan B One-Step® after fertilization has taken place may prevent the newly formed life from settling into the uterus and continuing to grow, which some consider a form of early abortion.^5,6,7

What are the side effects and risks?

Like any medication, risks and side effects are not the same for everyone who takes the morning-after pill. Plan B One-Step® can cause nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, heavier menstrual bleeding, and dizziness.⁸

Your body and health are important, so take time to make the best decision. Please contact us to ask your questions and have a confidential discussion about your options if you are pregnant.

NOTE: We offer accurate information about all your pregnancy options; however, we do not offer or refer for abortion services or emergency contraception. The information presented on this website is intended for general education purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional and/or medical advice.

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