Morning After Pill – commonly marketed as Plan B

The term Morning after Pill is not the equivalent to the Abortion Pill, which is a medical procedure for abortion. It is important to know about the different kinds of morning after pills and how they work. This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical care.

In Short- What Is It?

The morning after pill is an intense dose of oral contraceptive approved by the FDA. The product is commonly marketed under two names: Plan B One-Step® and ellaOne®. The normal dosage for Plan B One-Step® is one tablet taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex. The normal dosage for ellaOne® is one tablet within 120 hours after unprotected sex. The morning after pill is chemically related but NOT the same as RU486 the abortion pill.

How Does It Work?

The morning after pill works as an emergency contraceptive, principally by possibly preventing ovulation and fertilization. Additionally, it may inhibit implantation.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects for these products may include:
• Headache
• Nausea & vomiting
• Abdominal and menstrual pain
• Subsequent period may be abnormal
• Breast tenderness
• Tired or Dizzy effects

Can you be sure it works?

You will not know it has worked until your next period begins.
It should not be taken if you are already pregnant.
It can’t prevent sexually transmitted diseases
It is not recommended to be used for normal birth control.
Plan B One-Step® and ellaOne® both state the following risks in their material
“If you experience severe abdominal pain, you may have an ectopic (outside the uterus) pregnancy and should get immediate medical attention.” – Plan B One-Step®
*Plan B One-Step® and ellaOne® cannot guarantee you will not get pregnant and it will not protect you against HIV/AIDS or any other sexually transmitted infections or diseases.

Note: Clearway Clinic does not provide the morning after pill but can help you understand more about the use of this product.