Family Planning Plus

Hopefully, you took the morning after pill after the unprotected sex. Plan B One-Step is a pill you can take up to five days after unprotected sex to reduce your risk of pregnancy. The sooner you take it after sex, the more effective it is.

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 lining. If you are already pregnant, it will not terminate the pregnancy. According to the manufacturer, the treatment prevents seven of eight pregnancies that otherwise would have occurred.

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. If you are under 17, you need a prescription from a doctor. You can also get Plan B from a Family Planning 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).

If you are a week or more late for your next peiod, take a pregnancy test. If it is negative, repeat the test every two weeks until you have a normal period or a positive test result.

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 have sexual intercourse, please use condoms or consider using another form of birth control.  If you live near one of our offices, please call us for an appointment. We can talk with you about all of your contraceptive options and help you choose one that best fits your lifestyle. If you live further away, contact the Family Planning or Planned Parenthood office closest to you.