I had sex but didn't use any birth control. What can I do?
The Student Health Center does not recommend the routine use of medications following intercourse to prevent pregnancy. There are certain circumstances, however, such as rape, tearing of a condom or "naive, unprotected first intercourse" which can result in an unwanted pregnancy. In these settings, contraception after intercourse may be the best alternative.
Hormonal Intervention can be taken within the first 72-120 hours after unprotected intercourse. It has been shown to be approximately 89% effective in preventing pregnancy. Plan B contains levonorgestrel, which is a synthetic hormone (progestin) commonly used in birth control pills. Plan B is for emergency use, and should not be used in place of regular contraception since it is not as effective as regular contraceptives. Plan B does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases.
The Student Health Center is open every day, including weekends, during the semester and the practitioner on-call can evaluate your situation and advise you about post-intercourse contraception if necessary. Call 276-6287 and explain that you need to be seen for emergency contraception to insure that enough time is set aside for your appointment. You will need to bring $10.00 cash with you to the appointment since we are unable to charge your student account for this service.
To learn more about Emergency Contraception, please click on the following link.
