How much does Plan B cost?
How much does Plan B cost?
$40 – $50 cost for Plan B One-Step
$11 – $40 cost for generic Plan B pill
Plan B cost
The Plan B pill costs $40 to $50 for the brand-name version, called Plan B One-Step. Generic versions of the morning-after pill cost $11 to $40 and contain the same active ingredient (levonorgestrel).
Generic options for Plan B include My Way, Next Choice One Dose, Take Action, Option 2, Preventeza, Aftera, EContra, and AfterPill.
| Pill type | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Plan B One-Step | $40 – $50 |
| Generic morning-after pill | $11 – $40 |
What is the Plan B pill?
Plan B, also known as the "morning-after pill", is an emergency contraceptive that can be taken after unprotected sex to help prevent pregnancy. It contains the active ingredient levonorgestrel, which works by delaying or preventing ovulation. Plan B is a safe and effective option for those who need emergency contraception.
How effective is Plan B?
Plan B is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours. Plan B is up to 95% effective at preventing pregnancy if taken within 24 hours and up to 89% effective if taken within 72 hours.
However, it's important to note that Plan B does not always work, and there is still a chance of pregnancy even after taking it. The morning-after pill is not as effective as other types of birth control.
Plan B and other levonorgestrel morning-after pills may not be effective if you weigh more than 165 pounds. Other methods like Ella or IUDs are better options for individuals with a higher BMI.
How does Plan B work?
Plan B works by temporarily delaying or preventing ovulation. It does not interrupt an existing pregnancy. The pill contains a high dose of the hormone levonorgestrel, which is similar to the natural progesterone hormone. This high dose of levonorgestrel helps to disrupt the normal menstrual cycle and ovulation process.
When to take Plan B emergency contraceptive
Take Plan B as soon as possible after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, ideally within 72 hours. It can still be effective up to 5 days after unprotected intercourse, but its effectiveness decreases the longer you wait to take it. The sooner you take Plan B, the more effective it is.
Since the morning-after pill works better the sooner you take it after unprotected intercourse, consider purchasing it before you need it. Store it in your purse or medicine cabinet and take it as soon as possible when needed.
FAQs about the Plan B pill
Does Plan B work during ovulation?
Plan B works by delaying or preventing ovulation, so it may not be as effective at preventing pregnancy if ovulation has already occurred. The effectiveness depends on where you are in your cycle and whether your body has already released the egg.
Does Plan B make you bleed?
Plan B can sometimes cause irregular bleeding or spotting in the few days after taking the pill, but most people don't experience bleeding between periods. There is a common misconception that Plan B causes bleeding like an abortion pill, but less than 15% of people report bleeding after taking Plan B.
Plan B may cause heavier or lighter bleeding during your next period. Up to 31% of people who take Plan B report experiencing a heavier period after taking it.
Does Plan B delay your period?
Because Plan B contains a synthetic hormone, it may delay your next period or cause you to get your period sooner than expected. Most women get their period within 2 days to 1 week of the expected date. People who use Plan B more than once may experience more frequent irregular periods.
How long does Plan B stay in your system?
Your body typically clears the active ingredient in Plan B, levonorgestrel, within 5 days. However, Plan B is only effective if taken within the first 72 hours after unprotected intercourse.
How long do you have to take Plan B?
Unlike a daily birth control pill, Plan B is an emergency contraceptive you only take once.
Will Plan B work after 7 days?
No, Plan B is not effective if taken 7 days after unprotected sex. The morning-after pill is most effective if taken within the first 24 hours after intercourse and is only effective if taken within 5 days.
Where to buy Plan B
Plan B is available over the counter at most pharmacies, drug stores, and some retail stores. You can find it in the family planning or sexual health section. Some stores keep Plan B pills behind the pharmacy counter, but you do not need a prescription to purchase Plan B, and you will not need to show your ID.
You can get Plan B at:
Pharmacies (e.g., CVS, Walgreens, Rite-Aid)
Target and Walmart
Online retailers (e.g., Amazon, Nurx)
Planned Parenthood health centers
Health Department clinics
Healthcare providers
Questions to ask your provider about Plan B
If you have any concerns about taking Plan B, it's a good idea to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance and ensure you have the information you need. Consider asking these important questions:
Am I a good candidate for Plan B?
How effective is Plan B in preventing pregnancy?
What are the potential side effects of taking Plan B?
How soon after unprotected sex should I take Plan B?
Can Plan B interact with any medications I'm currently taking?
Should I take a pregnancy test before taking Plan B?
Should I take a pregnancy test after taking Plan B, and if so, when?
Will using Plan B affect my future fertility or chances of getting pregnant?
Is Plan B safe to use if I'm breastfeeding?
Are there any other options for emergency contraception that you recommend instead?
How can I get Plan B in the future if I need it again?
What effective long-term birth control options do you recommend?
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