#1 Medical Drive
Amarillo, Texas 79106
Phone 806.322.3599
Fax 806.372.5237
Emergency contraception is a pill that can be taken by a woman up to five days after intercourse. This is NOT a regular method of contraception. If no reliable birth control was used, or if the birth control method failed, such as a condom broke, this would be an alternate choice. Emergency Contraceptive pills prevent pregnancy primarily by delaying or inhibiting ovulation and inhibiting fertilization but may theoretically inhibit implantation of a fertilized egg.
Emergency Contraception
Details
STI reduction: None.
Commonly called “Plan B®” or “The Morning After Pill”: Emergency contraceptive pills contain either levonorgestrel (Plan B®, One-Step®, Next Choice®, and Levonorgestrel Tablets) or ulipristal acetate (ella®).
Not the same as the “Abortion Pill” or RU-486: The “Abortion Pill” or mifepristone, which is sold in the United States under the brand name Mifeprex, works differently than emergency contraceptive pills. When given after pregnancy has started, mifepristone stops the development of pregnancy once a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. This drug is approved for use in early abortions in the United States.
Cost
If you qualify for the funding Haven Health has available, services may be provided at no cost. Qualification for programs depends on family size and income. Please call Haven Health at 806.322.3599 to determine if you qualify for the available programs.ams.
Usage
The pill is to be taken as soon after intercourse where no reliable method was used, up to 3 days (72 hours) maximum.
Side Effects
Nausea and vomiting, fatigue, headache, breast tenderness, dizziness, diarrhea, lower abdominal pain, irregular bleeding
Effectiveness
The effectiveness varies depending on many factors such as how soon after intercourse it is taken and whether ovulation has already occurred.
Side effects
Nausea and vomiting, fatigue, headache, breast tenderness, dizziness, diarrhea, lower abdominal pain, irregular bleeding.
Effort
Take as soon after intercourse as possible.
How do I get it?
Available over the counter to those 17 years of age or older, and by prescription if younger than 17 years.
STI reduction
None.
