Unprotected sex happens, and sometimes birth control methods fail. In these situations, emergency contraception, like Plan B, can be a crucial option to prevent unintended pregnancy. Plan B, also known as the morning-after pill, is a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy up to 5 days after unprotected sex. The sooner you take it, the better it works. But where exactly can you get Plan B when you need it?
This guide will walk you through all the places you can find Plan B, ensuring you have access to this important medication when you need it most.
Pharmacies and Drugstores: Your Local Access Points
One of the most convenient places to purchase Plan B is at your local pharmacy or drugstore. Major chains like CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, and Walmart, as well as smaller independent pharmacies, all typically stock Plan B and generic levonorgestrel morning-after pills.
You can find Plan B and its generic equivalents, such as Take Action, My Way, Option 2, Preventeza, AfterPill, My Choice, Aftera, and EContra, in the family planning or sexual health aisle. It’s available over-the-counter, meaning you don’t need a prescription to buy it. There are no age or gender restrictions for purchasing Plan B.
Sometimes, Plan B might be kept behind the pharmacy counter or in a locked cabinet to prevent theft. If you don’t see it on the shelves, simply ask the pharmacist or a store clerk for assistance. They will be able to retrieve it for you without requiring a prescription or ID.
Planned Parenthood and Health Clinics: Expert Assistance and Affordable Options
Beyond drugstores, Planned Parenthood health centers and local health department clinics are excellent resources for obtaining Plan B. These clinics often offer Plan B at a reduced cost or even for free, especially for individuals with limited income or without health insurance.
Planned Parenthood health centers not only provide Plan B but also offer comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services. The staff at these centers can answer any questions you might have about emergency contraception, regular birth control methods, and other related health concerns. They can also help you determine if your health insurance plan covers emergency contraception.
To find a Planned Parenthood health center near you, you can visit their website https://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-center or use their online health center locator. Local health department clinics can usually be found by searching online for your city or county health department.
Online Ordering: Convenience for Future Needs
While Plan B is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, you can also consider purchasing it online for future use. Websites like AfterPill (http://www.afterpill.com/) offer generic levonorgestrel morning-after pills online at a lower cost, typically around $20 plus shipping.
Ordering online is a convenient option for stocking up and having Plan B readily available in your medicine cabinet, just in case of emergencies. However, keep in mind that shipping times may vary, so online ordering is not suitable if you need Plan B immediately. For immediate access, pharmacies and clinics are your best options.
Understanding Plan B and How it Works
Plan B, and its generic versions, are levonorgestrel morning-after pills. They work by preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex. The active ingredient, levonorgestrel, is a synthetic hormone that primarily works by delaying ovulation. By postponing the release of an egg, Plan B can prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg, thus preventing pregnancy.
It’s important to note that Plan B is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, ideally within 72 hours (3 days), but it can still be effective up to 5 days after. The effectiveness decreases with each passing day. If you weigh more than 165 pounds, Plan B might be less effective, and other emergency contraception options like ella or a copper IUD might be more suitable. Consider using an online emergency contraception quiz to help determine the best option for you.
How to Use Plan B
Using Plan B is straightforward. It typically comes as a single pill, though some generic versions might include two pills to be taken together as a single dose. Simply swallow the pill as you would any other medication. It can be taken with or without food. Be sure to read the instructions included in the package for specific directions.
If you vomit within 2 hours of taking Plan B, the medication might not be absorbed properly, and you will need to take another dose as soon as possible.
After taking Plan B, it is normal for your next period to be different from usual. It might arrive earlier or later, and the flow could be lighter, heavier, or spotty. If your period is delayed by more than 3 weeks after taking Plan B, it is recommended to take a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy.
Potential Side Effects and Safety
Plan B is considered very safe, and serious side effects are rare. Millions of people have used Plan B without experiencing significant problems. Some common, mild side effects may include nausea, stomach upset, headache, dizziness, breast tenderness, or changes in your period. These side effects are usually temporary and subside quickly.
It is important to remember that Plan B is for emergency use only and should not be used as a regular form of birth control. For ongoing pregnancy prevention, consider more effective and regular methods like IUDs, implants, or birth control pills.
Cost of Plan B
The cost of Plan B One-Step typically ranges from $40 to $50. Generic versions are generally more affordable, ranging from about $11 to $45. The price can vary depending on the retailer and location.
As mentioned earlier, Planned Parenthood and health clinics may offer Plan B at reduced or no cost. Additionally, if you have health insurance or Medicaid, you may be able to get Plan B for free or at a lower cost with a prescription from your doctor, even though a prescription is not required to purchase it over the counter. Contact your insurance provider or a Planned Parenthood health center to inquire about coverage options.
Medications That May Affect Plan B
Certain medications can potentially reduce the effectiveness of Plan B. These include:
- Rifampin (an antibiotic)
- Griseofulvin (an antifungal)
- Certain HIV medications
- Certain anti-seizure medications
- St. John’s Wort (an herbal supplement)
If you are taking any of these medications, it is advisable to consult with a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine if Plan B is still the best option for you or if alternative emergency contraception methods should be considered.
Plan Ahead for Peace of Mind
Knowing where to get Plan B is essential for taking control of your reproductive health. Whether you choose to purchase it from a local pharmacy, a health clinic, or online for future use, accessing emergency contraception should be straightforward and stress-free. Having Plan B on hand can provide peace of mind and ensure you are prepared in case of unprotected sex or birth control mishaps. Remember, for regular birth control needs, explore long-term and highly effective methods to protect your reproductive health proactively.
