Emergency Contraception
What are emergency contraception pills?
Emergency contraception pills (EC) are a medication that greatly reduces the chances of pregnancy when taken quickly and effectively. Preventing pregnancy might become a concern when contraception is not used or is used but fails (i.e., a condom slips off or breaks, you forget a dose of hormonal birth control). It may also become a concern following a sexual assault.
EC does not cause an abortion, but instead prevents pregnancy from occurring in the first place by delaying or stopping ovulation. EC is ineffective if pregnancy has already occurred and cannot harm an already developing .
EC pills are a and effective medication for people of all ages. There are no medical conditions or medications which prevent their use. EC also does not cause any serious or long-term side effects. If side effects are experienced, they are generally mild and resolve on their own.
Because of how they work, EC pills are time-sensitive and most effective within the first 24 hours after the concerning incident. Though they can be taken up to 5 days or 120 hours after the incident of concern, they become dramatically less effective after 3 days or 72 hours. Therefore, it is recommended that you take EC as quickly as possible.
How do I access emergency contraception pills?
There are multiple types of EC medication, many of which are available over-the-counter and without a prescription (i.e., Plan B One-Step). Note that if you weigh over 165 pounds, these over-the-counter methods may be less effective, and you may want to check out other EC methods described in the section below.
The Student Health Service Pharmacy provides EC pills without a prescription or appointment from 9AM-5PM, Monday-Friday and from 9-11:30 AM on Saturdays. The pharmacy is closed on University holidays and has alternative operating hours during school breaks. One dose of EC at the Student Health Service costs $10, considerably less than at most other pharmacies. Students may want to consider buying these pills in advance to have on hand in emergency situations.
EC can also be purchased "off-campus" at nearby pharmacies and retail locations in Evanston and Chicago or purchased (though be mindful of shipping times!). Prices typically range from $40-50 per dose. If buying Plan B from a pharmacy, a limited-use $10 coupon download is available through Plan B's .
CARE occasionally has access to free EC pills, which we provide during tabling and other special events. Check out our for future announcements.
What are other kinds of emergency contraception?
Instead of taking an over-the-counter pill, you might opt to have either a copper or hormonal IUD placed by a doctor or other trained medical provider. You might also visit a medical provider or have a telehealth appointment to obtain , a prescription-only EC pill.
Both these methods can be more effective for a longer period of time after the concerning incident than over-the-counter pills. They are also more inclusive of patients over 165 pounds. Further information about various types of EC is available through .
Be aware that not all forms of emergency contraception described here are available through the Student Health Service, and you may have to go off-campus to find a provider, such as Planned Parenthood.