Emergency Contraception
You may know it as the "morning-after pill" or Plan B. Emergency contraception (EC) is a backup method for the moments when your main plan failed — a condom broke, you forgot to use one, you took your birth control wrong, or you were forced to have sex. You use it when you don't want to get pregnant but think you're at risk.
How does it work?
You take the pill as soon as possible after unprotected sex — ideally right away, and no later than 120 hours (5 days). The sooner you take it, the better it works, which is why it's smart to keep one on hand just in case.
EC works by delaying ovulation — keeping your body from releasing an egg long enough for any live sperm to die off. No egg means nothing can be fertilized, so pregnancy can't start.
Is EC an abortion pill?
No. Emergency contraception is not an abortion pill. If you've already ovulated or you're already pregnant, it won't work — it prevents pregnancy from starting; it doesn't end one.
How much does it cost?
If you have Family PACT insurance, EC is free — you can get up to six per year. You can sign up for Family PACT right here at the Health Center, and the enrollment is confidential.
Without Family PACT, EC can cost up to $50 at a pharmacy. Planning ahead pays off: sign up for Family PACT now so that if you ever need EC, cost is one less thing to worry about.
| Question | Short answer |
|---|---|
| How soon should I take it? | ASAP — within 5 days (120 hours) at the latest |
| Does it work if I'm already pregnant? | No |
| Is it the same as an abortion pill? | No |
| Cost with Family PACT? | Free (up to 6 per year) |
| Cost without insurance? | Up to about $50 |
How do I get it?
The fastest route is usually us: call (650) 985-7000 and ask for an emergency contraception appointment — we understand that timing matters and will get you in quickly. Most pharmacies also sell EC over the counter with no age limit and no ID requirement, so you can walk in and buy it the same day.
If you find yourself needing EC more than once in a while, that's a sign it might be time to talk about a regular birth control method — the pill, the implant, an IUD. Come in and we'll help you find one that fits your life, no lecture attached.