Dear dmariesteve,

A woman who is concerned about unintended pregnancy after unprotected sex may want to consider emergency contraception (EC). Emergency contraception can reduce the risk of pregnancy if started within 120 hours of unprotected vaginal intercourse. The sooner it is taken, the better. If started within 72 hours of unprotected sex, it can reduce the risk of pregnancy by 75 to 89 percent.

In most states, a prescription is required to obtain EC. If you have had unprotected sex within the last 120 hours (five days), and need an appointment to receive EC, please call 1-800-230-PLAN for a Planned Parenthood center nearest you.

Several brands of birth control pills have been shown to be effective as emergency contraception. To learn more about the pill, consult this chart. The risk of pregnancy can only be reduced only if a woman takes certain brands according to the dosage chart.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.