Options

Plan B - many have probably heard of it, but the information out there can be muddled, and certainly riddled with politics. What is it? How does it work? How can one get some?

Plan B is an emergency contraception pill that a woman can take after failed contraception, unprotected sex, or sexual assault. It basically contains levonorgestril, the same ingredient as regular birth control pills, but in a larger dosage. It works best if taken no more than 72 hours after unprotected sex. It works primarily by preventing ovulation, though it is possible that it may prevent fertilization or implantation. This pill is not the same as the abortion pill, RU-486. The FDA has a Q & A section about Plan B that details a bit more about how it works.

And speaking of the FDA - recently the agency made Plan B an over-the-counter drug for those 18 and over. This is a good first step, however, because of the age requirement it will still be kept behind pharmacy counters. This also means that pharmacist may refuse to carry it or dispense it. There have already been some reports that this has happened. Generally, pharmacies will have a policy that someone else must be available to dispense this medication. Also, women younger than 18 years of age will still need a prescription from a doctor.

It's a good idea to have some Plan B on hand, since it is so time sensitive and there are still obstacles to obtaining it. You may also want to help a younger friend or sister by getting some for her if you are over the age of 18. And if you are really feeling spunky, you may want to see which pharmacies in town will dispense Plan B without problems, in case you need some. I will report if I find any with issues.