Emergency contraception (EC) is the best way to prevent unintended pregnancy in cases of rape, incest or contraceptive failure. Yet anti-choice forces continue to misinform women of how this birth-control method works.
Here are some facts on EC:
- Emergency contraception is a safe, effective back-up birth control method that can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, or contraceptive failure. The most common form of EC is emergency contraceptive pills, which contain concentrated dosages of the same hormones found in daily birth control pills.
- Also called the "morning after pill," EC can reduce the risk of pregnancy if taken up to five days after unprotected sex; however, the sooner it is taken, the better.
- EC works by delaying or inhibiting ovulation or fertilization; it should NOT be confused with RU-486. EC helps prevent pregnancy; RU-486 terminates pregnancy.
EC is available at our Planned Parenthood of Southeast Ohio health center. Contact us at 800-230-PLAN for more information.
Learn what you can do to raise awareness of this back-up birth control method by clicking here.
