Emergency Contraception (“Plan B” / “Morning After Pill”)

Emergency contraception is also referred to as “the morning after pill” or “Plan B.”  People use emergency contraception to prevent an unplanned pregnancy after unprotected sex or failed contraception, e.g. a condom breaking, or missed birth control pills.

If taken within three days after unprotected sex, emergency contraception can reduce the risk of pregnancy by about 75 per cent. Emergency contraception may be effective if taken up to five days after unprotected sex; however, the sooner it is taken the better it works.

Emergency contraception is a hormonal method similar to birth control pills but taken in different doses. In Canada, it is sold over the counter under the name “Plan B.”

You can get emergency contraception directly from a pharmacist without a doctor’s prescription, from the Planned Parenthood NL, Sexual Health Centre (St. John’s), or from your health-care provider.