Family Planning Plus

Whenever two people have intercourse, there is always a risk of pregnancy even when using a regular method of birth control perfectly.  However, as long as you do not use Plan B frequently, your risk is very slim and there is no need to take Plan B again.  Plan B works just like regular birth control pills by preventing ovulation, interfering with fertilization, and possibly preventing implantation.  Plan B delivers a much larger dose of hormones than regular birth control pills and hence, begins to work much faster. The hormones in Plan B and regular birth control pills are similar to hormones that are produced during pregnancy.   The brain sees these hormone shifts and recognizes it as a pregnancy.  The brain then sends a message back down to the ovaries to suppress ovulation as eggs are no longer needed because of the perceived pregnancy.  As long as the brain continues to see these hormone levels, ovulation does not occur.  Plan B temporarily prevents ovulation since the hormones are delivered in one large dose instead of a continual steady stream.  Eventually, hormone levels return to normal and the contraceptive effect wears off.  Women using regular birth control pills theoretically never ovulate while taking pills as they are receiving a steady dose of hormones.

Plan B should not be used as a regular method of birth control as it is designed to be used in an emergency only.  If you plan to continue to have sex, please consider using a more reliable method. If you are interested in learning more about your contraceptive options, please call one of our offices for an appointment.