Emergency contraception (EC), also known at Plan B or the morning after pill, is a medication or long-acting reversible contraception given to reduce the chance of pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure. It is important to remember that emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections and is meant for one-time use, as it is not as effective as other contraceptive methods. Options for emergency contraception include Plan B (levonorgestrel), Ella (ulipristal), and the copper ParaGard IUD.
Accessing Emergency Contraception at HUHS:
A generic version of Plan B, Econtra One Step, can be purchased 24/7 at the ScriptCenter kiosk, located inside the HUHS main entrance (first floor, Smith Campus Center) for a reduced cost of $15. Emergency contraception (the generic version of Plan B - Econtra One Step) is free of charge for students who present in the clinic as a result of trauma.
Forms of Emergency Contraception (EC):
Plan B (Levonorgestrel): Plan B is an over-the-counter medication and does not require a prescription. It is sometimes known by generic names such as Econtra One Step and My Way. Plan B should be taken within 3 days of unprotected sex and is typically 75-89% effective at preventing pregnancy- the sooner it is taken, the more effective it will be.
While the research is inconclusive, Plan B may be less effective for people weighing over 165 lbs. If you are worried about effectiveness, you may wish to consult with a medical provider to determine in you should instead get a prescription for another form of EC such as Ella. If you are concerned about seeing a provider in time, it is best to still take the form of EC that you can access, even if effectiveness may be lower.
Ella (Ulipristal): Ella is a prescription EC that must be prescribed by a health care provider and thus is not sold over-the-counter. Ella should be taken within 5 days of unprotected sex. In order to access Ella, you can schedule an Urgent Care appointment with HUHS by calling (617) 495-5711. At the appointment, you will take a pregnancy test and if appropriate, a provider will write you a prescription that you can take to a local pharmacy.
ParaGard (Copper) IUD: Copper IUDs, in addition to providing 10-12 years of protection against pregnancy, can be used as a form of emergency contraception if placed within 5 days of unprotected sex. Placement of the IUD will require an appointment with a medical provider. You can schedule an emergency appointment for a ParaGard IUD insertion at Planned Parenthood.