Family Planning Plus

Yes. Prior to ejaculation (cumming), pre-seminal fluid can leak out of the penis at any time during sexual intercourse.  Sometimes this fluid contains sperm that is left in the urethra from a previous ejaculation. If it does, pregnancy can occur. If the incident occurred less than five days ago, we would recommend Plan B.

Plan B works by delaying ovulation (the monthly release of an egg), and possibly by interfering with fertilization (the union of sperm and egg) and implantation (when the fertilized egg implants itself into the uterine wall). If you are already pregnant, it will not terminate the pregnancy.

If you are 17 or older, you can purchase Plan B at most drug stores without a prescription. You will need to ask the pharmacist for Plan B as it is located behind the counter. You may also need to show ID to prove your age. Plan B is around $50 in pharmacies. If you are under 17, you will need a prescription from a doctor. You can also get Plan B from a Family Plannning or Planned Parenthood clinic for free or at a reduced cost. We offer Plan B at all of our clinics.

One of the most common side effects of Plan B use is menstrual irregularity.  Therefore, your next period could be earlier than usual, later than usual, or spotty (meaning you may bleed for a few days, stop, and then bleed some more).  However, if you are more than a week late for your next period, take a pregnancy test as Plan B is not 100% effective.

 Just remember that Plan B should not be used as a regular method of birth control as it is less effective than other methods.  If you are going to continue to use condoms, please these tips for correct condom use:

• Always check the expiration date to be sure it is not expired prior to use.
• Condoms should be stored at room temperature in a sharps free environment.
• Never use an oil-based lubricant with a latex condom. If you need additional lubricant, use a water-based type like KY Jelly or Astroglide.
• Pinch the tip of the condom between the thumb and forefinger while rolling it onto the erect penis to ensure that there is no air pocket in the tip of the condom.
• Smooth out the sides of the condom once it has been rolled on to ensure there are no air pockets in the sides of the condom.
• Hold onto the rim or base of the condom while removing the penis from the vagina to prevent it from slipping off inside the vagina during removal.
• Do not have any penis-vagina contact without a condom.

You and your partner may want to consider a hormonal method of birth control since they are a little more effective. If you live near our service area, please contact one of our offices for an appointment. If you live further away, call the Family Planning or Planned Parenthood office closest to you.