Commmon Questions

What are some situations in which emergency contraception might be considered?
• Not using any birth control method (unprotected sexual intercourse)
• Condom broke or slipped off penis
• Diaphragm or cervical cap was taken out too early
• Failed coitus interruptus (ejaculated inside vagina or onto female external genitals)
• Spermicide was used alone during second or third week of menstrual cycle
• Missed more than 2 oral contraceptive pills or started pill pack more than 2 days late
• Delay in getting scheduled contraceptive injection
• Sexual assault (not on oral contraceptive pill; no IUD)
Where can I get emergency contraceptive pills?
• Your doctor is the person you should contact first.
• Local public health clinic.
• Local Planned Parenthood office.
Do I need a prescription?
• In most states in the U.S. you need to get a prescription in order to get emergency contraceptive pills. In the States of California, Alaska, Washington State, New Mexico and Hawaii, some pharmacies will provide emergency contraceptive pills, if you talk with the pharmacist.
• In Canada, you can get Plan B (levonorgestresl) without a prescription at many pharmacies. Contact your local pharmacy to determine if they have and provide this pill. Not all pharmacies have it in stock and some pharmacies may not dispense this medication.