Morning After Pill: Plan B

Millions of unplanned pregnancies occur each year. In 1999, the FDA approved the use of Plan B, an emergency contraceptive method. The following are some facts about Plan B.

1. Plan B is an emergency contraceptive. Meaning that is should only be used as a backup
plan in the case of unprotected sex or when other contraceptive methods have failed.

2. Plan B should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. Plan B’s effectiveness
diminishes the longer a woman waits to use it. It’s more effective within the 24 hours
after sex.

3. Plan B acts primary by stopping the release of an egg from the ovary. It may prevent a
sperm from fertilizing the egg. However, if fertilization does occur, Plan B may prevent
a fertilized egg from attaching to the womb. If a fertilized egg is implanted prior to
taking Plan B, it will not work and pregnancy will occur.

4. Plan B should not be used as routine contraception.

5. Plan B does not protect against HIV/AIDS and other STD’s or STI’s.

6. Plan B is sold without a prescription to women 18 and older. For women 17 and younger, a prescription is needed.

To learn more about Plan B, visit Web MD at www.webmd.com.