Anything and Everything Emergency Contraception

By: Abbie Griffin

Updated on 5/1/24

Most commonly referred to by the popular brand name, “Plan B,” emergency contraception is the “magic little pill” or IUD you can use if things didn’t go quite according to plan in bed. Whether it was a broken condom or a heat-of-the-moment mistake, emergency contraception has you covered for preventing pregnancy. But how much do we actually know about emergency contraception and how it works? (Spoiler alert: we know a lot!)

How does emergency contraception work?  

Sperm can live inside the body for up to five days following sexual intercourse – so if ovulation (i.e. the release of an egg from the ovary) occurs in this time, sperm can fertilize an egg and boom – you’re pregnant. Emergency contraception prevents ovulation from happening so there is no egg for sperm to fertilize. If an egg has already ovulated before you take emergency contraception, it’s too late. Over the counter emergency contraception can be taken up to 3 days after unprotected sex, but the sooner it’s taken, the more effective it is. 

 Is emergency contraception an abortion pill?  

No. Emergency contraception does not work if ovulation or fertilization has already occurred. It will not work if someone is already pregnant.  

How effective is emergency contraception?  

There are many different types of emergency contraception, which have varying levels of effectiveness depending on the person taking them as well as outside circumstances. Generally, over the counter emergency contraception is 89% effective at preventing pregnancy when taken within 72 hours (about 3 days) of unprotected sex.  

What are the different types of emergency contraception?

            The Paragard (copper) and MIrena and Liletta (progesterone) IUDs are the most effective form of emergency contraception. The IUD can be inserted by a medical provider up to five days after unprotected sex and can lower your chance of pregnancy by 99%! Despite their efficacy, IUDs are not often prescribed to patients, and can be difficult to obtain quickly – so advocate for yourself! Let your provider know exactly what you want and why it is urgent. (Pro-tip: Bridgercare does same-day appointments for IUDs!) 

After IUDs, the next most effective form of emergency contraception is Ella (ulipristal acetate). You can take this pill up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex, but it’s a good idea to take it as soon as possible. Ella is the most effective pill form of emergency contraception (which lowers your chance of pregnancy by 85%), but a prescription is required to obtain it. Luckily, you can get an in-person same day appointment at Bridgercare or easily get a prescription using online services like Nurx or Planned Parenthood Online. 

Oral levonorgestrel (a type of progesterone) is the most popular form of emergency contraception (often referred to as “the morning after pill” or “Plan B”) and is available over-the-counter at most pharmacies and drugstores. Bridgercare now offers free Plan B as well! Like Ella, it is a single pill, however it is less effective than Ella. Levonorgestrel lowers your chance of pregnancy by 75% when taken according to package instructions. Levonorgestrel is what is found in Plan B One-Step, AfterPill, Take Action, My Way, Option 2, Preventeza, My Choice, Aftera, EContra and many, many more brand name pills.  

How do I know which emergency contraceptive is right for me?

The easiest way to know which emergency contraception is the best for you is to talk to your provider. Over-the-counter emergency contraception is the most accessible option for many people; unfortunately, however, Plan B is much less effective if you weigh more than 165 pounds. If you weigh more than that Ella or an IUD will be better at preventing pregnancy. 

 What happens after I take emergency contraception?  

After taking emergency contraception, you may experience mild side effects such as nausea and slight irregular vaginal bleeding. Dizziness, headache, fatigue, abdominal pain, and vomiting are less common but can also happen. These side effects are usually mild and normally resolve on their own. However, if you throw up within 2 hours of taking Plan B or 3 hours of taking Ella, contact your healthcare provider as you may need to take a second dose.  

When it is time for your next period to roll around, it is completely normal for your period to be heavier or lighter, or earlier or later than usual. If your period is more than three weeks late, you should take a pregnancy test.  

Hopefully this blog post has helped you understand emergency contraception and your options even just a little bit more! Bridgercare and Planned Parenthood provide all the services mentioned above, and you can always call ahead to ensure an appointment. If you have any questions, please talk to your provider to understand what is right for you and your body.