The Morning After Pill

Emergency Contraception (EC) aka “The Morning After Pill”

Emergency contraception (EC) is a hormonal emergency birth control method used to effectively prevent pregnancy. The hormones prevent ovulation – the process when the ovaries release an egg – and thicken cervical mucus. EC is not an abortion pill. It will not harm or end a pregnancy; it will only work to prevent a pregnancy.

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If you are sexually active and do not want to become pregnant, we recommend having back-up EC just in case. If you have questions, ask us online or call to make an appointment or just walk-in to get EC for you or your partner.  Click here to find a pharmacy close to you that has EC.

How is it used?

EC can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected vaginal sex. Two pills are swallowed at the same time within those 120 hours.

How well does it work?

If EC is taken within the first 24 hours after unprotected sex, it is 89% effective. If taken on the fifth day after unprotected sex, it is 75% effective. The sooner EC is taken, the more effective it is in preventing pregnancy. EC does not prevent against any STIs!

Where can someone get it?

People aged 17 years and older can get EC over-the-counter at most pharmacies. For people under 17, it requires a prescription from a medical provider. People can walk in to Teen Clinic or our adult clinic whenever we are open to pick up EC.  Men and women can get EC, but only women take the pills.  We will write a prescription for patients under 17 as medically appropriate.

How much does it cost?

For patients under 18, Plan B is always free!  Teen Clinic patients over 18 can access Plan B for $0- $3, depending on their income.