Thanks to the complicated past of Plan B (a very popular emergency contraceptive), there are a lot of misunderstandings and myths about emergency contraceptives. Below, I am going to give you 12 things about emergency contraceptives you should know…
#12
First of all, you should not confuse Plan B or any of the other emergency contraceptives with RU-486, which is used in a medical abortion. They are two different things. RU-486 contacts a synthetic steroid known as mifepristone, which intercepts the body’s production of progesterone, which is necessary for pregnancy. Plan B does not have anything to do with progesterone.
#11
Emergency contraceptives delays or inhibits ovulation. It is effective if the process of implantation has started.
#10
You should only consider emergency contraceptives - in the case of emergencies - as a last resort. This means, you should only turn to it if your standard contraception malfunctions or you have been involved in a nonconsensual intercourse. You should think of emergency contraceptives as a fire extinguisher.
#9
If you take an emergency contraceptive right after sexual intercourse, then it will be more likely to work. This is why women and teens should have an E.C. on hand.
#8
Teenagers need to have a prescription in order to get something such as Plan B. You should consider getting a prescription in advance so it will be available when you need it.
#7
Besides Plan B, another type of emergency contraception is Copper TIUD. This is an intrauterine device that can be implanted five days after you have had sex.
