PLAN B

Emergency Contraception

What is Plan B?

Plan B is a progestin-only emergency contraceptive. Plan B can prevent pregnancy if taken within 120 hours (5 days) from a contraceptive failure or unprotected intercourse.  Plan B does not prevent HIV (the virus causing AIDS) or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

For additional information call: 1-888-not-2-late

Visit: http://www.go2planb.com or http://www.backupyourbirthcontrol.org/index.htm

How can I get Plan B?

Plan B is now available behind the counter (dispensed by the pharmacist but no prescription is necessary) for women 18 and over. Minors and those using MaineCare can obtain a prescription for Plan B from Mabel Wadsworth Women's Health Center.  For more information: or go to www.go2planb.com.

How does Plan B work?

Plan B is believed to act as an emergency contraceptive by delaying ovulation or preventing fertilization.  It might also inhibit implantation by altering the endometrial lining in the uterus.  Plan B is not effective if a woman is already pregnant and will not terminate an established pregnancy.

How effective is Plan B?

Plan B can lower the risk of pregnancy up to 89% - the sooner you take Plan B after unprotected intercourse, the more effective it is.

How do I take Plan B?

There are two ways to take Plan B.

• The directions in the Plan B packet state:
• Take 1 tablet by mouth as soon as possible from the time of unprotected intercourse or birth control failure and then take another tablet by mouth 12 hours later.
• Recent studies have shown that Plan B is equally effective if:
• Both tablets are taken at the same time. 

You may choose either treatment regimen.  The first tablet should be taken as soon as possible after the time of unprotected intercourse or birth control failure.  You have up to 120 hours (5 days) to take Plan B.

Who should not take Plan B?

Plan B is safe and effective for most women.  You should not take Plan B if you are already pregnant or have an allergy to progesterone (Levonorgestrel). 

If Plan B fails, are there risks to the fetus?

There is no scientific data to suggest that there would be an increased risk of birth defects if Plan B fails or if a woman who is already pregnant takes Plan B. 

What are the possible side effects?

Chances of having the following side effects increase if both pills are taken together:

Talk to your medical provider if the side effects are severe or last more than 48 hours.  See a medical provider right away if you have severe stomach pain, since this can be a warning sign of an Ectopic (tubal) pregnancy, a serious medical problem.

When will I get my period?

Your next menstrual period should begin around its normal time or a few days earlier or later.  Call your medical provider for a pregnancy test and possible exam if your period is more than one week late.

When should I start using my birth control method that I have chosen?

Start your regular, on-going, birth control the same day you take Plan B. Emergency contraception is meant for one-time protection, it is not a substitute for regular birth control.  You should not take more than 2 tablets within a 24-hour period.

For a list of Maine pharmacies that stock and dispense Plan B please visit::

Family Planning Association of Maine-Maine Pharmacies

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