Emergency Contraception: The Basics

Don't want to get pregnant? The best way to avoid pregnancy is not to have sex. If you have sex, the best way to avoid pregnancy is to use birth control (which includes condoms) all the time. But if you've had sex without using birth control, you can take emergency contraception pills to prevent pregnancy. EC is for emergencies. It is important to use a regular, reliable birth control method.

What is emergency contraception (EC)?

Emergency contraception (EC) is birth control that can prevent pregnancy after you've had unprotected sex. The sooner you take EC, ideally within the first 12 hours, the more likely it is to work. (That's why it used to be called the "morning after pill"). But it can still work if it is used up to five days after unprotected sex.

Take Control

1. Find an EC provider.

   If you're over 17 and you can pay, call a pharmacy and ask if they have EC. Take proof of your age when you go. (EC costs roughly $50 at a pharmacy - call to find out how much.)

   If you're under 17 or you can't afford EC, find a family planning provider near you and call now. In New York State, these services are often free for teens.

   New York State Family Planning Program Sites
   Emergency Contraception Website (national)
    

2. Take EC as soon as you can.

   EC works best if you take it within 12 hours of having sex, but it can work up to 5 days after unprotected sex. Here's what to expect when you take EC.
    

3. Follow up.

   Go to a family planning provider to be sure you're not pregnant and to get regular birth control.

What if I'm already pregnant?

If you were already pregnant at the time you had unprotected sex, emergency contraception won't affect your pregnancy. The medicine in EC pills is just like the hormones made during pregnancy.

If you're pregnant, you have options: continue the pregnancy and keep the baby or choose adoption, or end the pregnancy with an abortion. Visit a Family Planning Program for free or low-cost, confidential pregnancy counseling.

What if I'm not sure I need EC?

Call your doctor or a Family Planning Program to talk it over. A health care provider can tell you if EC is right for your situation, and then you can decide.