Plan B ®
Plan B Emergency Contraceptive: Your Guide to Safe and Effective Use
Women's Health and Beyond is committed to providing accurate and compassionate reproductive health information and services. We understand that life doesn't always go as planned, and we are here to help guide you through your options. One of those options is Plan B, a form of emergency contraception.
What Is Plan B?
Plan B One-Step is an over-the-counter emergency contraceptive pill designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom or missed birth control pill.
It contains levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that has been used in birth control pills for decades but in a higher dose to provide emergency protection.
How Does It Work?
Plan B primarily works by:
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Preventing or delaying ovulation: It stops the release of an egg from the ovary.
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Preventing fertilization: If ovulation has already occurred, it may prevent sperm from meeting an egg.
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Preventing implantation: It alters the lining of the uterus to make it less hospitable for a fertilized egg.
Important: Plan B does not terminate an existing pregnancy and is not an abortion pill. It is ineffective if you are already pregnant.
When Should You Take Plan B?
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Plan B is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, preferably within 72 hours (3 days).
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The effectiveness decreases the longer you wait, but it can still provide some protection if taken up to 5 days after intercourse.
Effectiveness
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When taken within 72 hours, Plan B reduces the risk of pregnancy by up to 87%.
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It is less effective if ovulation has already occurred.
Note: Plan B is not as effective for individuals who weigh over 165 lbs. In these cases, other emergency contraception options like Ella (ulipristal acetate) or a copper IUD may be more effective.
How to Take Plan B
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Take one pill orally with or without food.
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There is no need for additional doses.
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If you vomit within two hours of taking the pill, consult your healthcare provider, as you may need to take another dose.
Side Effects
Most people tolerate Plan B well, but some may experience:
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Nausea or vomiting
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Fatigue
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Headache
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Dizziness
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Breast tenderness
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Irregular menstrual bleeding
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Temporary changes to the timing or flow of your next period
These side effects are typically short-lived. If you experience severe side effects or your period is more than a week late, contact your Women's Health and Beyond.
Who Can Use Plan B?
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Plan B is safe and effective for individuals of reproductive age.
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It does not require a prescription and is available over the counter without age restrictions.
Who Should Avoid Plan B?
Plan B may not be suitable for you if:
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You are already pregnant (it won't be effective).
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You have a history of severe allergies to levonorgestrel or any components of the pill.
Does Plan B Affect Fertility?
No. Plan B does not impact your long-term fertility. Your regular cycle should resume shortly after use.
Plan B vs. Other Emergency Contraceptives
FeaturePlan BEllaCopper IUD
Active IngredientLevonorgestrelUlipristal AcetateNo hormones
Effectiveness WindowUp to 72 hours (best)Up to 5 daysUp to 5 days
Weight ConsiderationLess effective over 165 lbsLess effective over 195 lbsNo weight limit
Prescription RequiredNoYesYes, insertion by a provider
Cost of Consultation and Plan B
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$100
How Women's Health and Beyond Can Help
At Women's Health and Beyond, we:
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Provide accurate information about emergency contraception options.
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Help you understand your reproductive health and empower you to make informed choices.
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Offer compassionate consultations and referrals if you need further reproductive care.
Need Help?
If you have any questions about Plan B or other contraceptive options, please don’t hesitate to contact Women's Health and Beyond. Our experienced team is here to support you with expert guidance and compassionate care.