What is it?

A safe way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. Emergency contraception is an oral birth control method that can be taken by someone with a uterus to help to prevent the egg and sperm from meeting. Emergency contraception does not work if you are already pregnant, nor will it harm a current pregnancy. Emergency contraction should not be utilized as a continuous or ongoing birth control method because it is not as effective as ongoing, non-emergency methods such as pills, condoms, and LARCS (IUDs, Nexplanon).

When can you take EC?

• Emergency contraception can be utilized to prevent pregnancy under the following circumstances:
• A condom or other birth control method was not utilized when you had vaginal sex
• You forgot to take your birth control method on time and had vaginal sex
• Your condom broke
• Your condom slipped off
• Your partner did not pull out and ejaculated inside of you
• Someone forced you to have unprotected vaginal sex

How to use it

Emergency contraception works by preventing or delaying the release of eggs form the ovaries or, in other words, suppresses ovulation.  Emergency contraception should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected vaginal sex.  It works best if taken within the first 72 hours (3 days) after sex, but may be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after sex.

How to use it

Emergency contraception is available at all Healthfirst locations for low or no cost. Emergency contraception is covered at 100% (no cost) to those enrolled in Medicaid or Family Planning Only Services (FPOS). If you qualify for the Family Planning Only Services waiver program, but are not currently enrolled, Healthfirst can help! Healthfirst can help you determine if you qualify and can assist with enrollment in FPOS at time of service.

If you'd like more information on Family Planning Only Services (FPOS) coverage please visit our FPOS informational page or call us at 800-246-5743.