Emergency contraception (EC) is a backup method to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure (like a broken condom). The main options are pills (levonorgestrel Plan B/“Next Choice” or ulipristal Ella) and the copper IUD (Mirena’s copper version) placed by a doctor. These methods work by delaying ovulation or preventing fertilization; none will terminate an existing pregnancy. EC is most effective the sooner it’s used, but pills can work up to 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sexKidsHealth. It should not be used as regular birth control, but as an emergency safeguard.
Emergency Contraception
What It Is
Why It Matters
EC provides peace of mind and dramatically reduces the risk of unintended pregnancy. If taken promptly, it cuts pregnancy chances by about 75–95%WHO, 2021. For example, without EC roughly 8 out of 100 women mid-cycle might get pregnant; with EC that drops to about 2 out of 100WHO, 2021. In practical terms, one CDC report found that by 2015–2019, 22.3% of sexually active teen girls had ever used emergency contraceptionCDC, 2015-2017 data, a large increase from 8.1% in 2002. This trend shows how important EC is as safety net. Importantly, EC is safe for teens and has no long-term effects on fertility. A Yale University health clinic emphasizes that EC will not harm an existing pregnancyYale Health, so it’s safe to use even if a teen is already unknowingly pregnant (it simply won’t work in that case).
Statistics to Know
- Usage rise: Only about 8% of U.S. teen girls had ever used EC in 2002, versus 22.3% by 2015–2019CDC, 2015-2017 data. This shows growing awareness and availability.
- Effectiveness: Taken within 5 days, EC pills prevent about 75–95% of expected pregnanciesWHO, 2021. The copper IUD is even more effective (over 99%) and can be used up to 5 days after.
- Timing matters: ECPs should be taken as soon as possible, and no later than 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sexKidsHealth. The earlier, the better. By 3 days after sex, most EC options still work well.
- Access: In the U.S., levonorgestrel pills (Plan B, MyWay) are available OTC with no age restriction. Ulipristal (Ella) and the copper IUD require a prescription or clinic visit. Many health centers and Planned Parenthood offer EC, often at low or no cost for teens.
Age-Specific Guidance
Ages 13-15
EC is safe for this age group, though actual need is lower if sexual activity is low. Still, inform early teens about it as a concept: if they ever have unprotected sex (by accident or coercion), they can ask a trusted adult or doctor about a “morning-after pill.” Emphasize that it is not an abortion (it won’t affect an existing pregnancy)28, and that confidentiality laws often allow minors to get EC without parental permission. Reinforce prevention: it’s a last resort, not a substitute for condoms or birth control.
Ages 16-18
Teens may become sexually active and should know exactly how to obtain EC. Advise them to get a prescription or OTC box in advance if possible. Explain that any pharmacy can provide Plan B for free or low cost (in many places, especially with insurance or teen programs). Stress urgency: they should take it immediately after unprotected sex29. If vomiting occurs within 2 hours of taking the pill, they should see a doctor as they may need a replacement dose. Let them know the copper IUD is the most effective EC and has the bonus of ongoing birth control, though it requires a clinic visit. Finally, reinforce that EC does not protect against STIs.
Common Questions Parents Have
Q: “What if my period is late after using the morning-after pill?”
A: EC can sometimes cause a temporary shift in your menstrual cycle. Your next period might come a few days earlier or later than expected. If it’s more than a week late, take a home pregnancy test or see a doctor. But in most cases, the cycle normalizes the next month.
Q: “Will emergency contraception give me side effects?”
A: Some girls experience mild nausea, fatigue, or headache from EC pills. These effects are usually short-lived. If you vomit within 2 hours of taking the pill, contact a pharmacist or doctor – you might need another dose. You will have some bleeding or spotting before your next period because EC contains hormones. But these side effects are much less serious than an unplanned pregnancy.
Q: “Does emergency contraception cause an abortion?”
A: No. EC works by preventing ovulation (the release of an egg) or preventing sperm from fertilizing an egg28. It has no effect if implantation has already occurred. In other words, it cannot end a pregnancy because it only works before fertilization. Once a pregnancy has started, EC does nothing (and that’s why it won’t harm an existing pregnancy). This is confirmed by medical experts28.
Q: “Can I use emergency contraception more than once in a month?”
A: In an emergency, yes, but it’s not recommended as regular birth control. Taking EC multiple times in a month is safe medically, but it can cause more side effects (like menstrual irregularities). It’s better to start a regular method (pill, IUD, etc.) if you have frequent sex. EC is for rare use only. If you find yourself reaching for EC often, talk to a doctor about long-term contraception.
Q: “Do I need to see a doctor to get Plan B?”
A: In most places, no prescription is needed for teens to get Plan B or other levonorgestrel pills – they’re sold OTC at pharmacies. However, if you have health insurance or Medicaid, these should cover it. Ulipristal (Ella) still requires a prescription. The copper IUD must be placed by a doctor. If in doubt, you can also go to a family planning clinic or Planned Parenthood where counselors can explain the options and costs.