Plan B 101: Everything You Need to Know
You had unprotected sex. Your condom broke. You missed a pill. Now what?
First, take a deep breath. Emergency contraception (like Plan B) gives you a second chance to prevent pregnancy when your regular birth control fails or you didn’t use protection. But with so much misinformation out there, let’s set the record straight.
How Plan B Actually Works
Plan B is essentially a high dose of the same hormones found in regular birth control pills. It works by:
- Delaying ovulation (so there’s no egg for sperm to fertilize)
- Thickening cervical mucus (blocking sperm from reaching an egg)
Important note: Plan B does NOT cause abortion. If you’re already pregnant, it won’t affect the pregnancy.
The Clock Is Ticking: When to Take It
- Most effective within 24 hours after sex (up to 95% effective)
- Still works for up to 72 hours (but effectiveness drops to about 60%)
- Works best if you weigh under 165 lbs (those over may need Ella instead)
Where to Get Plan B Fast
Good news! You can find it:
- Over-the-counter at pharmacies (no prescription or ID required, regardless of age)
- At your local clinic (often cheaper than drugstores)
- Online through services like PRJKT RUBY
Pro tip: Keep one in your medicine cabinet—it never expires!
What to Expect After Taking It
Some people experience:
- Heavier or lighter periods
- Nausea or dizziness (take with food to help)
- Breast tenderness
These side effects are expected and should pass within a few days.
Remember: Plan B isn’t meant to be your regular birth control. After using it, consider starting a more reliable method like an IUD or birth control pills.
Need Plan B now? Find affordable options near you or text “EC” to 997-99 to locate the closest provider.
