Does Plan B Really Work

Does Plan B Really Work
How Plan B Works Before and After Ovulation

Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Ⓒ 2022 Dotdash Media, Inc. — All rights reserved

Dawn Stacey, PhD, LMHC, is a published author, college professor, and mental health consultant with over 15 years of counseling experience.

Verywell Health articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and healthcare professionals. These medical reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more .

Medically reviewed by
Monique Rainford, MD

Learn about our
Medical Expert Board

Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

Emergency Contraception vs. Abortion Pills: What to Know Right Now

My Way Morning-After Pill for Emergency Contraception

Ella (Ulipristal) Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Dosages

Infertility: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

How Is the Morning-After Pill Different From the Abortion Pill?

What You Should Know About Stockpiling Plan B

The Great Emergency Contraception Debate

How Hormonal Birth Control Prevents Pregnancy by Stopping Ovulation

What You Need to Know About Using the Morning-After Pill

Is Plan B Really Less Effective for People Above a Certain Weight?

Can Taking the Birth Control Pill While Pregnant Hurt My Baby?

What Is Plan B One-Step for Emergency Contraception?

You Can Prevent Pregnancies With More Than Just the Pill

Progestin for Emergency Contraception and Birth Control

Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Ⓒ 2022 Dotdash Media, Inc. — All rights reserved

Verywell Health is part of the Dotdash Meredith publishing family.

Monique Rainford, MD, is board-certified in obstetrics-gynecology, and currently serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor at Yale Medicine. She is the former chief of obstetrics-gynecology at Yale Health.

Plan B One-Step is an emergency contraceptive. Emergency contraceptives are used to prevent pregnancy after birth control failure or unprotected sex. Generic forms of Plan B include My Way , Take Action , and Next Choice One Dose .

Emergency contraception is safe and effective. Still, Plan B is controversial . Much of the debate is based on a misunderstanding about how Plan B works.

Some people believe Plan B prevents a fertilized egg from implanting in the lining of the uterus. This belief is based on the product's FDA labeling. Research, however, has not confirmed the information on the FDA label.

This article will discuss the controversy around the FDA labeling for Plan B. It will also look at what research says about how Plan B actually works.

According to the product label, Plan B prevents or delays ovulation, or the release of an egg. It may also prevent fertilization, when an egg and sperm combine.

The debate is based on another statement made on the label. Under "How does Plan B One-Step work?" the label says: “It is possible that Plan B One-Step may also work... by preventing attachment (implantation) to the uterus (womb).”

The medical community does not agree on the definition of pregnancy. 1 The legal definition of pregnancy "encompasses the period of time from implantation until delivery." 2

Some people, though, believe pregnancy begins when an egg is fertilized. People who hold this belief see Plan B as a form of abortion . This is because it is said to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg.

Research does not support this theory about how Plan B works, though. 3 In fact, studies have shown that Plan B does not decrease the rate of pregnancy when taken after ovulation. 4 This suggests it may not interfere with fertilization or implantation, just ovulation.

Most research suggests that Plan B does not cause changes in the endometrium , or lining of the uterus. 3 Because of this, researchers have concluded it cannot prevent implantation of a fertilized egg.

Plan B is not 100% effective at preventing an unintended pregnancy. It is also less effective the longer you wait to use it. Many researchers think this is because it does not prevent implantation.

Research shows Plan B does not cause any changes in the lining of the uterus. Therefore, it would not prevent implantation of a fertilized egg.

During Plan B's approval process, its manufacturer asked the FDA to remove the implantation piece from its label. It is not completely clear why the FDA chose to keep it there.

Most of the research done during the approval process focused on Plan B's active ingredient, the progestin hormone levonorgestrel . The research looked at the hormone's safety and its effectiveness at preventing pregnancy. These studies did not explore how Plan B works.

The FDA may have decided to include implantation on Plan B’s label because this is one of the ways birth control pills work . Birth control pills containing levonorgestrel or a different progestin change the lining of the uterus. The FDA may have decided that because the pill may do this, Plan B might, too.

But there are two things to keep in mind:

According to those involved in the Plan B approval process, the FDA thought it was important to include on the label the possibility that Plan B works "theoretically ... by interfering with a number of physiological processes." 6 This is why it included a list of all the possible ways that Plan B works.

Even though there was no scientific proof that Plan B works by preventing eggs from implanting, this claim was still included by the FDA on the drug’s label.

The FDA is has no plans to change the label. 7 But Erica Jefferson, an FDA spokesperson, did tell the New York Times that "the emerging data on Plan B suggest that it does not inhibit implantation." Research is clear that Plan B does not interfere with implantation. It works primarily by preventing ovulation. 8

Because of this, the research community and many in the medical field feel the language about implantation should be removed from Plan B labeling. 7

The FDA labeling for the Plan B emergency contraceptive says Plan B may work by preventing implantation of the fertilized egg. This has created controversy over its use. Research, however, shows that Plan B does not work this way. Instead, it works by preventing ovulation and fertilization of the egg.

Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life.
There was an error. Please try again.
Chung GS, Lawrence RE, Rasinski KA, Yoon JD, Curlin FA. Obstetrician-gynecologists' beliefs about when pregnancy begins . Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2012;206(2):132.e1-7. doi:10.1016/j.ajog.2011.10.877
Gemzell-Danielsson K, Berger C, Lalitkumar PGL. Emergency contraception — mechanisms of action . Contraception . 2013;87(3):300-308. doi:10.1016/j.contraception.2012.08.021
Novikovaa N, Weisberg E, Stanczyk FZ, Croxattod HB, Fraser IS. Effectiveness of levonorgestrel emergency contraception given before or after ovulation — a pilot study . Contraception . 2007;75:112-118. doi:10.1016/j.contraception.2006.08.015
Gemzell-Danielsson K, Berger C, Lalitkumar PGL. Emergency contraception — mechanisms of action . Contraception . 2013;87(3):300-308. doi:10.1016/j.contraception.2012.08.021
There was an error. Please try again.

Copyright © Doesitreallywork. All rights reserved.
When things don’t go as planned in the bedroom, is Plan B something you can or should rely on?Plan B is a medication for women to take when they’ve had unprotected sex with their partner and do not wish to get pregnant. In most instances it’s not as if you decide to just have unprotected sex. Sometimes, it’s unforeseen. It’s important not mistake Plan B as an ordinary form of birth control, but as “rescue” medication to prevent pregnancy if your primary choice of contraception has failed. And although it has been labeled as “the morning after” pill, it is best to take it as soon as possible.
Overview
Sex can be widely considered as a necessity in developing a strong relationship. It is one way of showing interest towards your partner and at the same time providing each other needed affection and intimacy. We all know what sexual activity can lead to, and for a lot of us we just aren’t ready for that part.
A study conducted by the Alan Guttmacher Institute of New York suggests that 49% of all pregnancies in the United States are “unplanned”. That’s a pretty high number of individuals or couples that practice unsafe sex, but do not wish to have children. This is a surprising number since there are all different forms of contraceptives that have been created in order for couples to avoid being placed in such an uneasy and sometimes frightening position.
The Claim
The creators of Plan B claim that even if you’ve had unprotected sex, you can avoid getting pregnant if you take the pill within the first 72 hours. Having a baby is a life-altering experience for both you and your partner, therefore this is quite a big claim to make.
The Hype
Since 2000, thousands of women have used Plan B. This just goes to show how many of the sexually active population greatly trust these two tiny pills. Most pharmacies in the U.S. actually make it available to anyone without a prescription, just as long as you’re above the age of 17.
The Cost
The cost for purchasing Plan B may specifically depend on where you’re located. The price can differ significantly, however the suggested retail price of this medication can be anywhere from $30.00 to $60.00. If there is a local Planned Parenthood in your area, you can obtain Plan B for as low as $10.00 to $45.00. If this is your last resort and you’re staring down being a parent, it’s a much less costly option.
The Commitment
Perhaps the worst thing about the Plan B pill is that no commitment is required, therefore giving couples the impression that they don’t need to be careful or safe when having sex. Again, it is not meant to replace your original choice of a contraceptive and is only considered emergency medication if “Plan A” somehow didn’t go according to plan.
Evaluation
It’s always tough trying to assure yourself that a certain medication such as Plan B can actually work. There’s a lot riding on it working. Because all of us are put in different circumstances, results and reactions toward certain things might not always be the same. It has worked for thousands, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it will work for you.
As expected, there are so many concerns from curious consumers associated with Plan B. Listed below are the most frequently asked questions that tackle everything from how it works to what exactly it does to your body.
What’s the Difference Between Plan B and Plan B One Step?
There’s not much of a huge difference if you were to compare Plan B and the current Plan B One Step. The only changes that have been made are the dosage for each pill and how often you have to take it. The original Plan B was first approved by the FDA in 1999 and consists of two pills both containing 0.75 milligrams of the synthetic hormone levonorgestrel. On the other hand, Plan B One Step which was approved by the FDA only in 2009 comprises of one pill consisting of 1.5 milligrams of levonorgestrel.
Is the Plan B Morning After Pill Effective?
The morning after pill is only effective if you take it within the allotted timeframe specified, which is 72 hours or three days since your sexual encounter. However taking the pill as soon as possible would be recommended. Like any other medication, there is no guarantee it will work. Research has indicated that Plan B can lessen your chances of getting pregnant by roughly 87%.
Is the Plan B Morning After Pill Safe?
Nothing that disrupts nature this much can be considered completely safe. Although both Plan B and Plan B One Step have been approved by the FDA, there are still a number of side effects one might have to face. Ideally, it would be best to schedule an appointment with your doctor before trying it out to get an idea of what you can expect and if it’s right for you. Those who already have a few health concerns would be advised to discuss taking Plan B with their doctor and ask if it might interact with other medication you may be taking, as well as affect other ailments you might be undergoing.
Does Plan B Affect Fertility?
Plan B does not affect fertility in the long run, but it does prevent you from conceiving as soon as you take it.
Does Plan B Abort A Baby?
If you are not aware that you are already pregnant when taking the pill, it will not in any way cause harm to you or your baby. A normal pregnancy will still take place, according to the manufacturer.
Does Plan B Change Menstrual Cycle?
There will be a slight change to your menstrual cycle when you take Plan B, as the ingredients promote an early detachment of the lining from the uterus. During this phase, you may experience spotting and even bleeding, so don’t be alarmed.
Does Plan B Ever Fail?
No medicine, or in this case emergency contraceptive, is certain. Therefore yes, it has failed and yes, it can fail. Although the instances where it “failed” might be chalked up to users waiting too long to take it, or not taking it according to directions.
Does Plan B Have Side Effects?
Side effects are normal when taking any type of drug. For some, side effects may occur and the most common are lower abdominal pain, nausea, headache, fatigue and dizziness.
Does Plan B Stay In Your System?
Studies have shown that Plan B does stay in the system for at least 72 hours, however it can remain in the body for up to several days. Although this may occur, the effectiveness after 72 hours will wear off.
Is Plan B Bad For Your Body?
Plan B basically consists of progesterone which is a hormone your body naturally makes during ovulation, so there’s reason to believe that your body can handle it, and return to normal after some time.
Is Plan B Illegal?
Plan B is not illegal, but you do have to be over 17 years of age to purchase it without a prescription. The morning after pill may seem illegal and that’s probably because morals and beliefs play a huge factor when it comes to these methods of birth control, as many religious groups and lobbyists try to keep it from being widely available.
Is Plan B One Pill?
Plan B actually consists of 2 pills, however the newly approved Plan B One Step only requires you to take only one pill.
Is Plan B Effective After 2 Days?
Plan B should still be relatively effective after 2 days, but there is a highly likelihood that it won’t work for you. The longer you wait, the less likely it is that it will work.
Is Plan B Effective After 3 Days?
One of the most common time frames is 3 days, aka 72 hours out, and this is because their official website states that this is the limit of its effectiveness, so yes it should still work, but you are on the verge of having it not work, and really pushing your luck.
Is Plan B Effective After 4 Days?
Plan B could still be effective after 4 days as it is possible it can still be in your system, however the effects will not be as potent and the company makes no promises that it will work.
Is Plan B Effective After 5 Days or 7 Days?
After five to seven days since having sex, taking Plan B will no longer work and you should schedule a doctor’s appointment to see if you may be pregnant.
Of course Plan B got its name because it’s only used when things don’t go according to plan. As long as you maintain strict precautions when it comes to your normal sexual activities, it is nice to have it as a back-up in case of emergencies. There are also moral considerations, religious considerations, and philosophical considerations, so this is not something you want to take a light-hearted attitude towards.
I took plan b last year as directed and as soon as possible and it failed for me!!! Not because I took it late or wasn’t following the directions as the medication indicated
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3rup6aOPqs
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time.

All

Select the section you want to search in

All
Consumer
Professional
Pill ID
Interactions
News
FDA Alerts
Approvals
Pipeline
Clinical Trials
Care Notes
Natural Products

Browse all medications:

a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
k
l
m
n
o
p
q
r
s
t
u
v
w
x
y
z
0-9

Advanced Search

Sort by

Top reviews
Most recent
Most helpful
Highest rating
Lowest rating
Time on medication

:)))
·
Taken for less than 1 month
·
March 7, 2021

Anonymous
·
Taken for less than 1 month
·
July 10, 2021

Thankful
·
Taken for less than 1 month
·
February 24, 2020

mck
·
Taken for less than 1 month
·
October 12, 2020

Anonymous
·
Taken for less than 1 month
·
October 26, 2020

CSA Schedule*
Not a controlled drug
N/A

Approval History
Drug history at FDA

Some Pharmacy Chains Limit Morning-After Pill Sales to Avoid Potential Shortage

Ad Choices

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information.

Copyright © 2000-2022 Drugs.com. All rights reserved.

Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling, or to remove inappropriate language and content. Reviews that appear to be created by parties with a vested interest are not published.
For Emergency Contraception: “I swore that I would come back to this website the day I got my period because it kept me sane. I had sex on my ovulation day and took plan B 24 hours after. I am not on birth control too. He thought he pulled out but being that we had sex a few times we weren’t really sure. I was PETRIFIED. I cried for 2 weeks. On day 10 after taking it I started spotting just like what implantation bleeding looks like. I talked to every person under the sun looking for answers and advice, but I still had to wait it out for the period. The spotting happened for 4 days straight, where it then turned into a period. I was scared to death. I took 3 pregnancy test, all negative and still didn’t believe it. Stay off doing internet searchers, PMS, plan b side effects, and pregnancy side effects are all the same.Stay off your computer and phone don't do all the internet searching and don’t spend $45 extra dollars on pregnancy test. Take one the day of your missed period. Plan b is expensive for a reason, it works EVEN WHEN OVULATING! STAY OF
Grace Shemale
Michelle Wolf Beastiality Charges
Interracial Lesbian Forced

Does Plan B Really Work

Report Page