Family Planning Plus

If semen may have been deposited inside the vagina or near the vaginal opening, pregnancy is possible and we would recommend Plan B to reduce your risk.

Plan B One-step is a pill you can take after unprotected sex to reduce the risk of pregnancy. It works best if it is used within the first 24 hours after sex but can be used up to 120 hours (or five days) after  unprotected sex with decreased effects after the first three days.  The sooner you use Plan B, 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 will need a prescription from a doctor. You can also get Plan B from a Family Planning or Planned Parenthood clinic. We offer Plan B at all of our clinics at a reduced cost. Some individuals qualify for free services.

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 period, take a pregnancy test. If it is negative, repeat the test two weeks later just to be certain you are not pregnant.

Condoms work best when they are used correctly and consistently. Here are some 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 this prior to ejaculation or immediately after ejaculation.
• Do not have any penis-vagina contact without a condom.

Please 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 have sexual intercourse, you may want to think about restarting the shot or 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 is best for you. If you live further away, contact the Family Planning or Planned Parenthood office closest to you.