Accidental Omissions: Understanding Your Options
The Morning After
We’ve all been there – a moment of passion without protection. No judgment, friends! Now that the deed is done, it’s essential to explore your options. Let’s break down the differences between Plan B and the abortion pill.
Fast Facts About Plan B
Plan B is a type of emergency contraception (EC), not the abortion pill. It won’t end an existing pregnancy. Instead, it prevents pregnancy by delaying ovulation or preventing fertilization. Here are some key points to remember:
- Contains the same hormone as birth control pills, but at a higher dose
- Shouldn’t be used as an everyday form of birth control
- Take it within 72 hours of sex for maximum effectiveness
- More effective if taken within the first 24 hours
- Doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Won’t impact your future fertility
Plan B vs. Abortion Pill: What’s the Difference?
It’s easy to get confused between Plan B and the abortion pill. Here’s a quick recap on the initial stages of pregnancy:
- Ovulation: An egg is released from the ovaries
- Fertilization: A sperm penetrates the egg
- Implantation: A fertilized egg embeds into the uterus
Trusted medical organizations agree that pregnancy begins with implantation. However, some people believe it starts at fertilization. This confusion might explain why EC and medical abortions are often mixed up.
How Plan B Works
Plan B prevents pregnancy by delaying ovulation or preventing fertilization. Research suggests it might work after fertilization, but it’s essential to take the pill ASAP after sex to ensure effectiveness.
Is Bleeding Bad?
Vaginal bleeding is a rare side effect of Plan B, but it can happen. If you experience heavy bleeding, dizziness, nausea, or cramps, seek medical attention.
How Effective is Plan B?
Plan B’s effectiveness is tricky to gauge, as it’s hard to know how many people would’ve gotten pregnant without taking it. The package insert claims it’s 95% effective if taken within 24 hours and 61% effective if taken between 48 and 72 hours after sex. Some studies question these stats, but experts agree it’s between 52 and 100% effective.
Beat the Clock
Take Plan B as quickly as possible after sex. While some research suggests it might work up to 120 hours after sex, it’s still essential to act fast.
If You’re Already Pregnant
Plan B won’t work if you’re already pregnant. There’s limited research on its effects on fetal development, but it’s unlikely to harm the fetus.
Fertility Facts
Plan B won’t affect your fertility. It won’t hurt your chances of getting pregnant in the future, and it won’t increase your risk of miscarriage. You can take it as often as needed, and there’s no limit.
Who Should Use It
Most people can take Plan B safely. However, if you have a condition that prevents you from using hormonal birth control, consult a doctor for alternative solutions.
Does Weight Matter?
Some studies suggest Plan B might not work as well for people with a body mass index (BMI) over 25. If you’re concerned, talk to a doctor about doubling the dose.
Side Effects
Plan B side effects are usually mild and temporary. Common symptoms include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headaches, irregular periods, and cramps.
Abortion Pill 101
A medical abortion involves two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. They work together to terminate a pregnancy, with a 98-99% success rate if taken correctly.
Other EC Options
Plan B isn’t the only EC option. You can opt for ella (ulipristal acetate), which might be more effective. An intrauterine device (IUD) can also prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years.
Where to Get Plan B
You can buy Plan B over-the-counter without a prescription or ID. The average cost ranges from $40 to $50. Generic brands are available at a lower cost. Ella requires a prescription, but it might be covered by insurance. IUDs also require a prescription and insertion by a doctor.
Cut the Cost
If you’re uninsured, don’t worry. Local family planning clinics might provide services and medications at little to no cost.
What Happens if You Get Pregnant?
If your EC didn’t work, there are many resources available. You can call a doctor, local clinic, or counselor for guidance and support.
Remember, accidents happen, but EC has you covered. Just remember that Plan B is not the abortion pill, and it won’t work if you’re already pregnant. Stay informed, stay safe! ❤️️
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