Dear lalis0708,

The "abortion pill" is a common term for medication abortion. Medication abortion is a way to end pregnancy without surgery. It's done with medicine up to 63 days after the last period begins. It must be administered by a clinician — it is not available over the counter.

You may have been thinking of emergency contraception (EC), which is different from medication abortion pills. EC can prevent a pregnancy before it occurs. It 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.

EC is available without a prescription in a few states, but in most states, a prescription is required. 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.

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.