Plan B (Emergency Contraception)

If you have had sex without using contraception, or if your contraception might have failed (unprotected sex), you can use Plan B emergency contraception (EC). EC can reduce the risk of pregnancy up to 120 hours (five days) after unprotected vaginal intercourse. The sooner they're taken, the better. They work best when taken within 72 hours - during this time they can reduce the risk of pregnancy up to 89%.

What's involved?
Emergency contraceptive (EC) pills contain a progestin hormone which is similar to the natural progesterone women produce in their ovaries. They should be taken as soon after sex as possible or within 3 to 5 days (72 to 120 hours) of having unprotected sex. They are more effective the sooner they are taken. However they are not as effective as using other methods of contraception such as the pill or condoms regularly and do not protect you against sexually transmitted infections.

How do I take them?
PLAN B comes in a packet of two pills. The two pills should be taken together (at the same time), with food, and as soon as possible after unprotected sex.

How does Plan B work?
The pills may:

  • Stop an egg being released (ovulation)
  • Delay ovulation
  • Stop a fertilized egg from attaching in your womb (implanting)

    • Will Plan B protect me from pregnancy until my next period?
    No. It will not protect you from pregnancy if you have further unprotected sex.

    Can anyone use Plan B?
    Almost every woman can use it. However, if you are taking certain prescribed or over-the-counter medicines, herbal supplements, or suffer from particular illnesses you may need special advice. Consult your pharmacist or physician.

    What are the side effects?
    There are no serious short or long-term effects from using Plan B. Some women will feel sick and have headaches, dizziness, tiredness, breast tenderness and abdominal pain. A very small number of women may vomit. Contact us if you do vomit or if you have any concerns or questions.

    How will Plan B affect my period?
    Your period may come earlier than expected or it may be up to a week late. It usually comes within a few days of when you would expect it. You may experience some irregular bleeding between taking Plan B and getting your next period.

    Do I need to see a doctor or nurse after taking Plan B?
    Not usually, but do go and see a doctor or nurse if:

  • Your next period is more than 10 days late
  • Your period is shorter or lighter than your usual period
  • You have any sudden or unusual pain in your lower abdomen

    • These could be signs of an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that develops outside the womb, usually in a fallopian tube). Although this is not common, it is serious.
  • You think you may be pregnant
  • You want to talk about using regular contraception
  • You are worried that you might have caught a sexually transmitted infection

    • Can Plan B fail?
    Emergency pills are very effective and should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. They are most likely to fail if you:

  • Take the pills more than 72 hours after unprotected sex
  • Vomit within two hours after taking the pills
  • Don’t take the pills as instructed
  • Have had unprotected sex at another time, either since your last period or since taking Plan B

    • What if I vomit within two hours of taking either pill?
    Speak to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. They may give you extra pills or a medicine to stop you from vomiting again.

    How will I know if Plan B has worked?
    If you have taken the pills correctly and your next period seems normal, it is unlikely that you will be pregnant. If you are worried, seek advice.

    Are there any risks if Plan B fails?
    Plan B has not been shown to affect a pregnancy or harm a developing baby. As with any pregnancy there is a small chance that an ectopic pregnancy may occur.

    Can I use Plan B regularly?
    Emergency pills are not as effective as using other contraceptive methods regularly. If you do not want to become pregnant you should always use contraception. You can take Plan B more than once – this is not dangerous, but may disrupt your periods. If you want advice on any method of contraception, contact us.

    Can I get Plan B in advance?
    Yes, if you are worried about your contraceptive method failing or cannot get emergency contraception easily. You do not need an appointment, just drop by the clinic.

    Can I get Plan B from a Pharmacist?
    Yes. If you are 18 years of age and older you can get Plan B over the counter without a prescription. However, it is not currently available at all pharmacies. See the list of local pharmacies where Plan B is available on our I Need Help Now! page. If you have TAKE CHARGE or medical coupons, it will cover the cost.

    Does Plan B emergency contraception cause an abortion?
    No, Plan B may stop ovulation or fertilization of an egg, or stop a fertilized egg from implanting in the womb. Medical research is quite clear that emergency contraception prevents pregnancy and is not abortion. Abortion can only take place after a fertilized egg has implanted in the womb. People who believe life begins when the egg is fertilized may not wish to use emergency contraception.

    What should I do if I think there is a problem?
    If you are worried about anything to do with your emergency contraception see a medical provider as soon as possible. Seek care if you are experiencing:

  • A sudden or unusual pain in your lower abdomen
  • A shorter, lighter or delayed period
  • An odorous discharge from the vagina
  • A high temperature
    • These could be signs of an ectopic pregnancy or an infection, which can be serious.