Your Question:
Dear Experts,
I took the EC pill. I was told to take both pills at once. Later after reading more about EC I found out that you must take 1 then 12 hours later take the second. Can taking the pills both at once make the pills not effective, causing unwanted pregnancy?
Ferrisgirl, 10.16.06
The Answer:
Dear Ferrisgirl,
The package labeling calls for emergency contraception (EC) to be taken in two doses, but more recent studies have shown that progestin-only EC, such as Plan B, is equally effective when the two doses are taken at the same time, and many health care providers now tell women that they can take the pills at the same time.
EC can reduce the risk of pregnancy if started within 120 hours of unprotected vaginal intercourse. The sooner EC is started, the better. EC reduces the risk of pregnancy by 75 to 89 percent if started within 72 hours.
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.
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