Morning After PILL
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
What
is the Morning After Pill? The morning
after pill is also called Plan B.
It
is a form of emergency contraception. This means it can prevent pregnancy if
taken 1-3 days after unprotected sex.
When
can I use Plan B? You can use it 1-3 days after:
·
Condom failed
·
Other birth control failed
·
No birth control was used
·
A rape or date rape
How
much time do I have? Plan B works
best if taken within 3 days. You can take it up to 5 days after unprotected sex,
but it does not work as well.
How
well does it work? Plan B reduces
the risk of pregnancy by about 89%.
Is
it an abortion pill? No. If you are
already pregnant, Plan B will not end or harm the pregnancy.
Are
there side effects? Yes. Nausea
and vomiting are most common. To prevent them, take the pill with food, or take
an anti-nausea medicine (Benadryl or Dramamine). Other side effects are
cramping, fatigue, dizziness, and headache. These normally go away within 24
hours.
Do
I need a prescription? Not if you are over 18. If you are under 18, our doctor can
write a prescription for you. Just ask us.
Where
can I get Plan B? You can buy it
at Walgreen’s and other pharmacies. Ask at the pharmacy window and they should
give it to you. You can also buy it at the clinic.
How
much does it cost? We charge $40.
Other pharmacies charge $35-$60.
Will
it affect my period? Plan B can make your
next period a few days early or late. Your next period may also be very heavy.
What
if I don’t get my period? If you do not have a period within 3 weeks,
you could be pregnant. Take a home pregnancy test right away.
Can
I take it more than once? Yes, but don’t use it as a regular form of birth control. Ask
us about other forms of birth control that are more effective.