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How Long After Unprotected Sex Can I Take Plan B?

You can take Plan B One-Step up to 72 hours after having unprotected sex. The sooner you take it, the more effective it is.

What Is Plan B?

Plan B One-Step is emergency contraception that helps to prevent pregnancy. Also known as the morning-after pill, Plan B is intended to be taken after having unprotected sex. This may include:

  • Missing a dose of your regular birth control pills
  • Not using a condom during sex
  • Having a condom break or slip during sex

Plan B is not an abortion pill, so it will not affect an existing pregnancy. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Get Emergency Contraception At Home

Emergency contraception from Nurx costs as little as $0 with insurance or $45 per pill without insurance.

When to Take Plan B

Plan B One-Step should be taken within 72 hours of having unprotected sex. You do not have to wait until the morning after having unprotected sex to take Plan B. You should take it as soon as possible, since the sooner you take it, the better it works.

How Plan B Works

Plan B One-Step contains levonorgestrel, which is the same active ingredient found in many birth control pills. The single, higher dosage in Plan B helps to prevent or delay ovulation. It also makes it more difficult for fertilization to occur and for the egg to implant in the uterus.

How to Get Plan B

You do not need a prescription to get Plan B One-Step. It is available for anyone to buy regardless of gender or age.

Plan B One-Step is typically located in the family planning aisle in pharmacies and drugstores. Some of the major retailers that carry Plan B One-Step include:

  • Target
  • Walmart
  • CVS
  • Rite Aid
  • Walgreens

You can also get Plan B One-Step online at Nurx. We provide an easy, discreet way to stock up on emergency contraception before you need it. If you recently had unprotected sex, it’s best to get Plan B One-Step locally so you can take it as soon as possible.

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