Introduction
Emergency contraception, also known as Plan B, can be a lifesaver for those who have had unprotected sex or experienced a birth control failure. However, with so much misinformation about Plan B floating around, it’s important to understand when and how to use it. This article will provide an in-depth guide to help you make the right decision about taking Plan B.
What You Need to Know About Plan B
Plan B is a type of emergency contraception that is specifically used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. The active ingredient in Plan B is levonorgestrel, a hormone that works by inhibiting ovulation, fertilization, or implantation of the fertilized egg.
When taken as directed, Plan B is up to 89% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, its effectiveness decreases the longer you wait to take it. Plan B can also cause side effects such as headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and breast tenderness.
It’s important to note that Plan B is not a regular form of birth control. It should only be used in emergencies and not as a substitute for regular contraception.
Emergency Contraception: When to Use Plan B
You should consider taking Plan B if:
- You had unprotected sex
- Your birth control failed
- You missed a birth control pill or your contraception patch/ring fell off
- You were forced to have sex against your will (sexual assault)
It is a common misconception that Plan B is only effective when taken immediately after unprotected sex. In reality, Plan B can be taken up to 72 hours after intercourse. However, the sooner you take it, the more effective it will be. It is still worth taking Plan B up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex, although its effectiveness decreases the longer you wait.
Plan B: Understanding the Time Frame
If you are considering taking Plan B, you’ll want to act fast. As previously mentioned, Plan B is most effective when taken within the first 72 hours after unprotected sex. According to a study by the American Society for Emergency Contraception, if taken within 24 hours, Plan B is approximately 95% effective at preventing pregnancy. This effectiveness rate decreases to 85% when taken between 25 to 48 hours after intercourse and only 58% if taken between 49 to 72 hours after.
The closer you are to ovulation, the less effective Plan B will be. Sperm can survive up to five days in the female reproductive tract, so the sooner you take Plan B, the more likely it is to prevent fertilization.
What to Know Before Taking Plan B
Before taking Plan B, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Firstly, Plan B cannot end an existing pregnancy. It is only effective if taken before fertilization occurs. If you’re already pregnant but don’t know it, Plan B won’t cause a miscarriage or harm the developing fetus.
Secondly, if you have any underlying medical conditions or take any medications, speak with a healthcare provider before taking Plan B. Plan B can interact with certain medications, including medications used to control seizures, which can decrease the effectiveness of both the medication and Plan B.
Lastly, severe side effects after taking Plan B are rare. However, if you experience severe abdominal pain, dizziness, or heavy vaginal bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.
How Plan B Works: Steps to Take After Unprotected Sex
Plan B works by preventing ovulation, fertilization, or implantation of the fertilized egg. However, to increase its effectiveness after unprotected sex, there are a few additional steps you can take:
- Take Plan B as soon as possible
- Use a barrier method of contraception, like a condom, until your next period
- Get tested for STIs
- Consider long-term birth control options
By taking these steps after taking Plan B, you can help prevent unintended pregnancy and ensure a healthy sexual future.
When Is Plan B not an Option?
There are some situations in which taking Plan B may not be the best choice. For example:
- Plan B should not be used as regular contraception
- If you are already pregnant, Plan B will not harm the developing fetus or induce an abortion
- If you have a medical condition that affects your liver function, you should not take Plan B.
If you have any concerns or questions about taking Plan B, speak with a healthcare provider.
FAQs About Plan B
Here are some frequently asked questions about Plan B:
Q: Can I use Plan B if I’m already on birth control?
A: Yes, you can use Plan B as a backup in case your primary birth control fails, like if you miss a pill or your condom breaks.
Q: Does using Plan B affect my ability to have children in the future?
A: No, using Plan B does not affect your fertility. You can still get pregnant after using Plan B.
Q: How often can I take Plan B?
A: Plan B should only be used in emergencies and not as a regular form of birth control. If you find yourself using Plan B too frequently, consider discussing alternative birth control options with your healthcare provider.
Q: Can I buy Plan B without a prescription?
A: Yes, Plan B is available over-the-counter at most drugstores and pharmacies.
Q: Is Plan B effective at preventing STIs?
A: No, Plan B is not an effective method of preventing sexually transmitted infections. Use a barrier method of contraception, like a condom, to protect against STIs.
Conclusion
Emergency contraception, like Plan B, can be a useful tool for anyone who has had unprotected sex or experienced birth control failure. By understanding when and how to take Plan B, you can take control of your sexual health and prevent unintended pregnancy. Remember, Plan B should only be used in emergencies, and if you have any questions or concerns about taking it, speak to a healthcare provider.