What is Plan B and How Does it Work? - The Hope Clinic

March 30, 2021

If you had unprotected sex or missed a birth control pill, you may be considering taking Plan B. Maybe you’re confused about what it does and the risks involved. There are some things you should know about this form of contraception and that’s what we’re talking about today.

What Is Plan B?

Also known as the morning-after pill, Plan B is not the same as the abortion pill. It is an emergency contraceptive that prevents pregnancy while the abortion pill terminates a pregnancy that has been implanted. It should not be used as a primary method of birth control.

How Does Plan B Work?

Plan B contains levonorgestrel, a synthetic form of the hormone progestin that works to delay or prevent ovulation. It could also prevent fertilization, but is not effective once the egg is fertilized. This emergency contraceptive may prevent pregnancy if it is taken within 5 days after sex. Again, it will not work if you’re already pregnant and it may fail even with correct usage and does not protect against STD/STIs.

What Are the Risks and Potential Side Effects?

With this contraceptive, there are side effects to be aware of that could last days or more depending on your body. First, make sure you are not pregnant if you’re considering using Plan B. Potential side effects could include:

Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness
Fatigue
Headache
Breast tenderness
Bleeding between periods or heavier menstrual bleeding
Lower abdominal pain or cramps

Confirm If You’re Pregnant

Before deciding what to do next, you will want to confirm if you are already pregnant. We know how scary this step can be and we are here to help every step of the way. Confirm if you’re pregnant with a medical pregnancy test at The Hope Clinic. All our services are free of charge and confidential!

Schedule your free appointment today. You are not alone.

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When I found out I was pregnant with my first child, I was single, scared, and alone. I wondered how I would take care of my child. Would I be a good mom? When I went to the Hope Clinic, I felt hope for the first time. The staff members were very nice. They even prayed with me when I found out I was pregnant. I no longer felt alone. I was able to earn Baby Bucks and buy items for my baby. I would recommend the Hope Clinic to any woman who is pregnant or is questioning how she will take care of her child.

Testimonial…I was pregnant with my first child

When I first came to the Hope Clinic, I was 19 and had no idea how I was going to be able to take care of a baby. The staff and volunteers were professional, nice, and understanding. They were not judgmental. Their support and programs helped prepare me to be a mom. The Hope Clinic is a great place, and I am thankful for all that they have done for me.

Testimonial…I am thankful for all that they have done for me.

The ladies are always very caring and informative. If I was to get pregnant again, I would definitely come back as I did with my first one. My test and positive result helped me to get medical coverage to see a doctor and obtain health insurance.

Testimonial…always very caring and informative

I was pregnant at a young age and trying to graduate from high school when I came to the Hope Clinic. The ladies treated me very well and made me feel at home. In fact, sometimes I really do feel more at home at the Hope Clinic than in my own home! I am grateful for all the programs and the help I received. The Hope Clinic is an extremely helpful place!

Testimonial…I was pregnant at a young age

The staff is great. The staff is always friendly and helpful. I like everything especially the Baby Bucks program. It really helps! The Hope Clinic has helped me so much over the last 4 years. I would refer all my friends. They are helpful people who are genuine and want to help. Also being able to get what we needed for our son. I also liked seeing the ultrasound of my daughter and talking to Mary Carol and everyone else. They are very nice and understanding.

Testimonial…The staff is great

The first thing I noticed when walking into The Hope Clinic was how much nicer and more welcoming it felt than Planned Parenthood, which is where I got my pregnancy test for my first son.

Testimonial…The first thing I noticed

When times were rough, The Hope Clinic helped me to overcome my weakness. They prayed with me when times were both bad and good. This gave me the courage to become stronger.

Testimonial…When times were rough

If I could tell people about The Hope Clinic, I would tell them that anything you need they are there for you. I have learned so much and I would definitely recommend them to you! When I first came in, I was at the bottom. I am now getting married in a few weeks and enjoying my life.

Testimonial…If I could tell people about The Hope Clinic

I was 16 years old, pregnant, and trying to figure out how to support a baby on little to no income. When I walked through the doors of The Hope Clinic, I didn’t feel judged. The place really did give me hope. The staff and volunteers were all so kind. They asked about my family every time I came in and actually cared about us.

Testimonial…I was 16 years old