Emergency Contraceptive (Plan B/Morning After Pill)

What is it?

• Plan B is a type of emergency contraception (EC) used to help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or birth control failure (such as a broken condom or missed pills).

Common Brand Names:

• Plan B One-Step
• My Way
• Next Choice One Dose
• Take Action
• Aftera

How it works:

• Contains progestin (levonorgestrel) — the same hormone used in many birth control pills.
• Stops or delays ovulation (the release of an egg).
• Must be taken within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex — the sooner, the better!

Who should NOT take Plan B?

• Plan B should not be taken if you are already pregnant or if you are allergic to any ingredient in Plan B.
• Do not use Plan B if you have unexplained vaginal bleeding.

Important Information:

• You can use levonorgestrel-EC more than once in the same menstrual cycle, but it should not be used as regular birth control.
• It is less effective than consistent use of regular contraception.
• Being overweight or obese may reduce its effectiveness.
• It does not end an existing pregnancy.
• It does not protect against HIV or other STDs/STIs.

Possible Side Effects:

• Changes in your period (lighter, heavier, earlier, or later than usual)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Lower abdominal cramps
• Tiredness, headache, dizziness
• Breast tenderness

What To Do:

• Take as directed.
• If you vomit within 2 hours of taking it, contact the advice nurse at 860-486-4700 - you may need another dose.
• If you have severe lower abdominal pain 3–5 weeks later, seek medical attention — this could be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy.
• If your period is more than 1 week late, take a pregnancy test.

After Using Plan B:

• Do not use EC as routine contraception.
• Schedule an appointment to discuss long-term birth control options and STI protection.
• Call Student Health and Wellness (SHaW) at 860-486-4700 with any questions or to make an appointment.