Emergency Contraception

EC, or Plan B (brand name), is an FDA approved safe and effective back-up contraceptive method for use when birth control has failed (missed pill, broken condom), none was used, or sex was forced.

EC is up to 89% effective in preventing pregnancy when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. The sooner it is taken after sex, the better, but it can be effective up to five days/120 hours later.

EC is not the same as Mifeprex, also know as RU-486 or the "abortion pill.” Mifeprex terminates an early pregnancy, while EC prevents pregnancy. If taken when a woman is already pregnant, EC will not harm the pregnancy.

EC is not a substitute for the correct use of contraceptives. It is not as effective as regular birth control and provides no protection from HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Where to Get EC

Health Quarters – No age restriction

• Women and men age 17 and older can get Plan B “behind-the-counter” (without a prescription) from Health Quarters for $25 (with proof of age), which is less than the pharmacy cost of $40-$45.
• Women under age 18 or women without an ID can get Plan B after a clinical assessment.
• Call 800.892.0234 for hours and/or an appointment.

Pharmacy - Age 17 and older with ID

• Women and men age 17 and older with an ID can buy Plan B “behind-the-counter” (without a prescription) from most pharmacies.

Pharmacy - Under age 17 or without ID

• Women under age 17 or women without an ID can get Plan B from a specially trained pharmacist who participates in the Massachusetts EC pharmacy access program. Go to www.massECnetwork.org for a list of participating pharmacies/pharmacists.