Plan B include Ella (ulipristal acetate), the copper intrauterine device (IUD), and contraception hormonal birth control pills. Plan B is commonly referred to as the “morning-after pill.” It contains a hormone named levonorgestrel, which works to prevent ovulation and reduce the risk of pregnancy following unprotected intercourse. Following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022, there was a significant surge in the demand for emergency contraceptives like Plan B. However, Plan B is not the sole option available; there are other levonorgestrel-based pills such as Aftera, Next Choice, Take Action, and AfterPill that serve as alternatives to Plan B.
Ella contraception
Ella is offered in the form of a single oral tablet. This medication works to prevent pregnancy by postponing… ovulation Ella also impacts the endometrium, which is the inner tissue layer of the uterus, making it less welcoming to sperm. sperm Remember that Ella can have interactions with various medications. Consult a healthcare professional if you are taking medications for epilepsy, fungal infections, or tuberculosis.
Factors To Consider contraception
Effectiveness: Ella can inhibit pregnancy for as long as five days afterward. unprotected sex It decreases the likelihood of pregnancy to 9 in 1,000 (or 0.9%) if taken within 24 hours after unprotected intercourse. The effectiveness of Ella might be lower for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30. What it costs: The cost of Ella usually amounts to approximately $67 if you don’t have health insurance; however, if you do have coverage, the pill is provided at no cost. Where to buy: For this kind of emergency contraception, you must see a healthcare provider, as Ella can only be obtained with a prescription.
Levonorgestrel Pills contraception
Plan B One-Step Aftera, Next Choice, Take Action, and AfterPill are offered in the form of oral tablets. Each contains levonorgestrel, which is a form of progestin. Progestin is a hormone that inhibits the release of an egg from the ovary and prevents fertilization by sperm. The instructions for use differ depending on the brand, but generally, you should take a tablet orally as soon as possible following unprotected intercourse.
Factors To Consider contraception
Effectiveness: These medications can reduce your chances of becoming pregnant by 89% if taken within three days after having unprotected sex. Levonorgestrel pills have a “moderate effectiveness” when used within five days. However, these options, including Ella, may be less effective for individuals with certain conditions. BMI of more than 30. What it costs: Prices differ depending on the brand. The out-of-pocket retail cost for Plan B One-Step and comparable levonorgestrel tablets ranges from approximately $20 to $50. Where to buy: These drugs can be purchased without a prescription and are generally available over the counter. You can usually locate them on the shelves at your nearby pharmacy or large retail stores.
Paragard contraception
Paragard is a copper IUD The copper IUD is a T-shaped device that is placed inside the vagina. It does not contain hormones and can prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years. It functions by hindering sperm from fertilizing the egg. A healthcare professional must insert the copper IUD within five days following unprotected intercourse. It can be used for long-term birth control and can be removed whenever you wish to conceive. Paragard has no weight restrictions, making it effective for everyone. However, it’s important to note that this method of emergency contraception may not be the most comfortable, as the insertion process can be painful, particularly for those who haven’t given birth before.
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Factors To Consider
Effectiveness: Paragard is considered one of the most effective methods of emergency contraception. Research has demonstrated that it prevent pregnancy 99.9% of the time. What it costs: A copper IUD is No cost if you possess health insurance.and are part of the network. You may need to pay as much as $1,300 out of your own pocket. Where to buy: You need to see a healthcare professional to obtain and remove an IUD It’s one of the most challenging types of emergency contraception to obtain, as scheduling a quick appointment to see someone can be difficult.
Combined Hormonal Contraceptive Pills
Combined hormonal birth control pills These pills include both estrogen and progestin and are commonly used as a daily contraceptive method. They can also be utilized as emergency contraception if a healthcare professional prescribes them in larger doses. It’s important to take combined hormonal birth control pills as quickly as possible, within five days after having unprotected intercourse. The required number of pills will vary based on the dosage, so it’s advisable to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate amount to take.
Factors To Consider
Effectiveness: Combined hormone birth control pills are the least reliable option for emergency contraception. According to some evidence, the failure rate ranges from approximately 2% to 3.5%. What it costs: If you have health insurance, it won’t incur any charges for you. The expense will vary based on the brand of coverage you choose. Where to buy: If you already have a pack of combined hormonal birth control pills at home, this can be a simple choice for you. If you need emergency contraception and are uncertain about what steps to take, contact a healthcare provider for tailored advice. Acting quickly increases the effectiveness. emergency contraception Here are some aspects to think about before selecting a backup option:
- Convenience: Buying levonorgestrel pills, which can be obtained without a prescription, is likely more convenient. On the other hand, other forms of emergency contraception necessitate a prescription, making it potentially harder to arrange a visit with a healthcare professional.
- Sexual activity: Emergency contraception is typically effective when taken within five days of having unprotected intercourse. However, engaging in unprotected sex within 24 hours after taking emergency contraception may reduce its effectiveness.
- Weight: Some indications imply that specific forms of emergency contraception may have reduced effectiveness in individuals with obesity. Paragard might be most effective for those with a higher BMI.
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The Office on Women’s Health (OWH) recommends a more consistent approach to birth control If you are engaging in sexual activity, birth control options consist of condoms Hormonal birth control methods such as pills, patches, implants, rings, or an IUD are generally more dependable and more affordable than emergency contraception. A healthcare professional can assist you in determining the most suitable birth control method for your needs. Remember that if you take Ella, you’ll need to wait five days before resuming regular birth control; however, you can continue using other forms of emergency contraception normally. Plan B, often referred to as the “morning-after pill,” is a specific type of emergency contraception designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. Alternatives to Plan B include Ella, a copper IUD, and combined hormonal birth control pills. Other levonorgestrel pills similar to Plan B are also available. The effectiveness, price, and potential side effects of these options differ. Most health insurance plans cover the costs associated with both birth control and emergency contraception. You may want to consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist to explore the best choice for you.
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