Dear ever_after1617,

Using the patch after unprotected sex or a birth control failure won't help reduce the risk of pregnancy — but emergency contraception will.

Emergency contraception (EC) 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.

To get EC, call 1-800-230-PLAN to find a Planned Parenthood health center near you. It can be a good idea to get a prescription for EC and keep it on hand in case of another birth control failure or unprotected sex.

If it is too late to use EC and you miss your next period, it's important to take a pregnancy test — either at home or at a health center.

For tips on using condoms correctly and reducing the risk of them breaking, check out the video How to Use a Condom.

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.