Emergency Contraception: When & How to Use It

Unprotected sex, missed birth control pills, or a broken condom—these things happen. That’s where emergency contraception (EC) comes in. Often called the “morning-after pill,” emergency contraception can help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex.

This guide covers when to take emergency contraception, how it works, effectiveness, side effects, and where to get it in Miami.

What Is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception (EC) is a backup birth control method used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.

It is NOT an abortion pill—it works by preventing ovulation and fertilization.

EC must be taken as soon as possible for the best effectiveness.

It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Types of Emergency Contraception:

1. Plan B One-Step & Generic Versions (Levonorgestrel)

How It Works:

Contains levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that prevents ovulation.

Must be taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex.

Available over the counter without a prescription.

✔ Effectiveness:

• 89% effective if taken within 72 hours.

• Works better the sooner you take it.

❌ Limitations:

• Less effective for women over 165 lbs (higher weight may require Ella or an IUD).

• Does NOT work if you’re already ovulating.

Where to Get It:

• Pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Target, etc.)

• Miami Women’s Center

• Online (overnight delivery available in some cases)

2. Ella (Ulipristal Acetate)

💊 How It Works:

• Contains ulipristal acetate, which blocks the hormone needed for ovulation.

• Can be taken up to 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sex.

• Requires a prescription.

✔ Effectiveness:

• More effective than Plan B, especially on days 3-5 after sex.

• Works better for women over 165 lbs.

❌ Limitations:

• Not available over the counter—requires a prescription.

• May interact with hormonal birth control (must wait 5 days before restarting birth control).

Where to Get It:

• Miami Women’s Center (prescription required)

• Planned Parenthood

• Some telemedicine providers offer same-day prescriptions

3. Copper IUD (Paragard)

⚙️ How It Works:

• The most effective form of emergency contraception (over 99%).

• Prevents pregnancy if inserted within 5 days after unprotected sex.

• Also provides long-term birth control for up to 10 years.

✔ Effectiveness:

• 99.9% effective (more reliable than pills).

• Works for all body weights.

❌ Limitations:

• Requires a doctor’s visit for insertion.

• May cause heavier periods and cramping.

Where to Get It:

• Miami Women’s Center (appointment required)

• OB-GYN clinics & Planned Parenthood

When Should You Take Emergency Contraception?

🚨 Take emergency contraception as soon as possible for best results! 🚨

Effectiveness

0-24 hours : Plan B, Ella, Copper IUD Highest

24-72 hours Plan B (less effective), Ella, Copper IUD Good

72-120 hours (3-5 days) Ella, Copper IUD Ella is best

5+ days Copper IUD only 99% effective

Side Effects of Emergency Contraception

Most women experience mild side effects after taking emergency contraception, including:

✅ Nausea or vomiting

✅ Headache

✅ Fatigue

✅ Dizziness

✅ Spotting or irregular bleeding

✅ Changes in your next period (it may come early or late)

🚨 If you vomit within 2 hours of taking Plan B or Ella, call your doctor—you may need another dose.

Common Questions About Emergency Contraception:

1. Can I take Plan B more than once?

Yes! You can take it multiple times if needed, but it should not replace regular birth control.

2. Will emergency contraception affect my fertility?

No. It has no long-term effects on fertility, and you can become pregnant again quickly.

3. Can I take Plan B while on birth control?

Yes, but you should continue taking your regular birth control pills as usual.

4. Does Plan B work if I’m already ovulating?

No. If ovulation has already occurred, Plan B may not work. Ella or a Copper IUD is a better option.

5. Can I get emergency contraception in Miami without a prescription?

Plan B: Available without a prescription at most pharmacies.

Ella: Requires a doctor’s prescription.

Copper IUD: Requires an appointment for insertion.

Where to Get Emergency Contraception in Miami:

✅ Miami Women’s Center – Plan B, Ella prescriptions, and IUD insertion

✅ Pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Target, etc.) – Plan B available over the counter

✅ Planned Parenthood Miami – Ella prescriptions & IUD insertions

✅ Online Pharmacies & Telehealth Services – Ella prescriptions available for delivery

🚨 Need emergency contraception today? Call Miami Women’s Center for same-day options.

Emergency contraception is safe, effective, and widely available in Miami. If you’ve had unprotected sex or a birth control failure, act quickly to prevent pregnancy.

If you have questions about your options or need a prescription, schedule a confidential consultation with Miami Women’s Center today.