Health & Sex

Emergency Contraception

Who Should Not Use ECPs?

Plan B One-Step will not affect an existing pregnancy or cause harm to a fetus. Ella should not be used by women who are already pregnant or suspected to be pregnant. The risk to a human fetus is unknown. Animal studies have demonstrated risk of fetal loss. Also, women who have had clotting disorders or deep venous thrombosis (DVT) should not use Plan B.

Are There Any Side Effects Associated With Emergency Contraception Pills?

The most common side effects associated with emergency contraception pills include:

• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Menstrual changes

Ask your doctor or pharmacist about ways to reduce nausea. They may prescribe some anti-nausea medicine for you to take before you take an ECP.

Does It Protect Against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)?

No. Emergency contraception will not protect you from contracting an STD, such as HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. The best way to avoid getting STDs is to limit sexual contact to one uninfected partner. If that is not an option, use a latex condom correctly every time you have sex.