WHAT IS EC?
EC is medication made of the same hormones that are in birth control pills. An IUD can also be inserted as a method of EC. Look for EC packaged under the name PLAN B.

WHEN CAN I USE EC?
Up to 120 hours after unprotected intercourse EC reduces your chances of getting pregnant by up to 75%. It is most effective during the first 24 hours with a 95% success rate.

You can use EC if your condom breaks, if your diaphragm slips, if you have been raped or if you have had unprotected intercourse.

IMPORTANT REMINDER—EC should not be used as a regular method of birth control - one used all the time. Physical side effects can be intense and unpleasant: nausea, headache, cramping. It is important to think of EC as an emergency method.

WHERE CAN I GET EC?
You can get EC at your local Family Planning services provider or you can get a prescription from your doctor and have it filled at a pharmacy. EC is also available at hospital emergency rooms but can cost up to $500. You can also check out our fact sheet FIND OUT FOR YOURSELF ONLINE for links to electronic EC prescriptions.

IMPORTANT REMINDER — Catholic hospitals, some Wal-Marts and certain doctors will not provide EC. Call first.

HOW DOES EC WORK?
EC is not an abortion. EC prevents pregnancy by delaying or inhibiting ovulation, inhibiting fertilization, or preventing implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus. EC will not interrupt or harm an existing pregnancy.

HOW DO I FIND EC IN MY AREA?
Call 1 – 888 – NOT – 2 – LATE or visit Not-2-Late's website.

Revised 11/04