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Imagine this scenario: The condom broke or wasn’t used properly, your partner ejaculated inside you, and you are not currently using any form of birth control. It happens! If your next step is to rush to the nearest pharmacy to buy an over-the-counter emergency contraceptive like Plan B, that’s perfectly understandable. However, what may be less clear is what to expect after taking Plan B, given the confusion surrounding its side effects and misconceptions about the medication as a whole.
Let me clarify some important points for you. Plan B, commonly known as “the morning-after pill,” is an emergency contraception that can be purchased over the counter without a prescription. It contains a high dose of hormones designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. According to ob-gyn Tia Jackson-Bey, MD, Plan B works by preventing a pregnancy from occurring and cannot terminate an existing pregnancy. It is not the same as the abortion pill.
If you are preparing to take Plan B or considering it but want to understand its effects on your body first, keep reading for a comprehensive overview of Plan B side effects, how they may impact you, their duration, and more.
What happens when you take Plan B?
Plan B functions by preventing pregnancy rather than terminating one. It works by delaying ovulation, explains Raegan McDonald-Mosley, MD, MPH, CEO of the reproductive health non-profit Power to Decide. It is recommended to take Plan B within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse, and when taken in this timeframe, it can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 89%, according to Planned Parenthood. Dr. McDonald-Mosley emphasizes that Plan B is ineffective if ovulation has already occurred.
The primary ingredient in Plan B is levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone similar to progesterone found in many birth control methods. Dr. Jackson-Bey notes that Plan B contains a much higher dose of levonorgestrel compared to regular contraception. This concentrated dosage disrupts the body’s natural hormone patterns, delaying ovulation and preventing fertilization. By preventing ovulation, there is no egg present for sperm to fertilize.
If you had unprotected intercourse near your usual ovulation time, Dr. Jackson-Bey advises taking Plan B as soon as possible without waiting for the full 72-hour window.
Where can you purchase Plan B?
Plan B is legally available in all 50 states and can be found at local pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens, as well as retailers like Target. You do not need a prescription to buy it, and the cost typically ranges from $35 to $50. If you have Medicaid, you may be able to obtain the morning-after pill for free. Additionally, low-cost or free emergency contraception is available at local Planned Parenthood facilities.
If you are unable to access a reproductive health clinic for Plan B, you can order emergency contraception online from services like Nurx, Favor, and Wisp with fast shipping. Dr. Ginde advises that emergency contraception can be taken as needed, but it should not be relied upon as a regular form of birth control due to its lower effectiveness compared to other methods. If you find yourself using emergency contraception frequently, consult your healthcare provider about more reliable forms of birth control.
Common side effects of Plan B include changes in menstrual cycle, nausea, fatigue, gastrointestinal issues, tender breasts, and headaches. If you vomit within an hour of taking Plan B, it is recommended to take another dose. These symptoms can be similar to early pregnancy signs, but when taken correctly within 72 hours of intercourse, Plan B is effective. If you are still concerned about pregnancy, consider visiting your provider for additional support.
The duration of Plan B side effects varies among individuals. Typically, mild effects may occur on the first day, followed by continued symptoms such as headache and fatigue on days 2 to 3. By days 4 to 5, most people no longer experience side effects, but may still have minor symptoms like breast tenderness or headaches. Menstrual changes are common in the following weeks, with irregular spotting or a skipped period possible. If side effects persist, worsen, or include severe abdominal pain or allergic reactions, seek medical attention promptly.
Plan B does not disrupt the menstrual cycle long-term, and any changes should normalize within about a month. To alleviate side effects, stay hydrated and consider using over-the-counter pain relievers for headaches or breast tenderness. Rest is also important if you are feeling fatigued.
When you’re not feeling quite yourself, it’s always comforting to cozy up with a good Netflix show. Just remember, this feeling is temporary and you will be back to normal soon.
Who is eligible to use Plan B? It’s important to note that Plan B may have reduced effectiveness in individuals weighing 155 pounds or more, which can be a significant limitation. Dr. Jackson-Bey advises, “If you have concerns about the efficacy of Plan B due to your weight, it may be wise to consult your ob-gyn and consider alternative emergency contraception options, such as the copper IUD.” Dr. McDonald-Mosely emphasizes that opting for the copper IUD is the most reliable form of emergency contraception available, and it can also serve as a long-term birth control method. Dr. Ginde adds that you have a five-day window post unprotected intercourse to have a copper IUD inserted.
For those hesitant about undergoing an IUD insertion, considering its potential discomfort, there are alternative emergency contraception brands other than Plan B that might be more effective for individuals weighing over 155 pounds. If you don’t have a regular healthcare provider or feel apprehensive about discussing reproductive health with professionals at the moment, resources like Bedsider can provide valuable information on emergency contraception options suited to your needs.
In conclusion, Plan B is a safe and easily accessible emergency contraceptive pill. While some individuals may experience mild side effects, they are typically manageable. However, if you suspect the emergency contraception did not work as intended or if side effects persist beyond a few days, it’s advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider.
Remember, taking care of your reproductive health is a priority, and there are various options available to address your specific needs. Whether it’s exploring alternative emergency contraception methods or seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, ensuring your well-being is essential.
