Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception helps prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.

Do I need a prescription for a morning-after pill?

You’ll need a prescription for ulipristal acetate (ella), a type of emergency birth control that can delay or prevent ovulation when taken within 5 days (120 hours) of having unprotected sex or experiencing a contraceptive failure.

You won’t need a prescription for levonorgestrel (Plan B, My Way, and others), a type of emergency birth control that can prevent ovulation when taken within 3 days (72 hours) of having unprotected sex or experiencing a contraceptive failure.

Both types of medication are FDA-approved to prevent pregnancy, though neither drug is 100% effective.

How much does the morning-after pill cost?

Most major insurance plans cover the cost of ulipristal acetate (ella). The medication’s out-of-pocket cost is about $40 to $50. Levonorgestrel (Plan B, My Way, and others) is available over the counter at many pharmacies and online for $50 or less.*

*Pricing not guaranteed

Is online emergency contraception right for me?

• You’re 18–55

• Unprotected sex occurred within 5 days

• You’re not seeking ongoing birth control

• You’re not already pregnant