Emergency birth control is most likely to work if you have it on hand before you need it.

Take EC if:

• You had sex and didn't use protection.
• Someone forced you to have sex.
• You forgot to take your birth control pills.
• You're late for your Depo-Provera shot.
• The condom broke, leaked or came off.

Take EC:

• Immediately after unprotected sex if possible.
• Within 24 hours (when it's most effective).
• Little by little it becomes less effective.
• After 5 days, it won't work.

More important information

• Using EC may change the time of the month when you can become pregnant.
• After you use EC, you must take extra care to use birth control every time you have sex, especially until you get your next period.
• If you have unprotected sex again, be sure to take EC again.
• You have the best chance of taking EC immediately after unprotected sex if you have it on hand before you need it. Get it today. Always keep it handy.
• EC never protects against sexually transmitted infection. Always use a condom.
• Plan B is safe and effective when taken according to directions.
• Research shows that emergency birth control works the same way as regular birth control pills.
• Emergency birth control DOES NOT cause an abortion. It will not work if you are already pregnant.

What about side effects?

• Some women have them.
• You may feel tired, dizzy or sick to your stomach.
• You may vomit or have abdominal cramps, headache or tender breasts.
• If symptoms last longer than a day, see your healthcare provider.
• Your period may be lighter or heavier than usual.
• If your period is late, you may already have been pregnant and you will need to see your healthcare provider.

Get Plan B before you need it. Always keep it on hand!

See the following links to learn more:
www.Not-2-Late.com
American Medical Women’s Association
Association of Reproductive Health Professionals
Planned Parenthood Federation of America
PATH – Información clave sobre la Anticoncepción de Emergencia (Español)