Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception also known as the "Morning After Pill" consists of 2 doses of hormone pills, the first dose taken within 72 hours of unprotected vaginal intercourse. These pills may reduce the possibility of pregnancy by at least 75% but are not intended to be used as a routine method of birth control.

The mechanism of action is not entirely clear. Emergency contraception may prevent the ovary from releasing an egg, prevent egg and sperm from joining, and/or change the lining of the uterus (womb) in such a way that if an egg is fertilized by a sperm, the fertilized egg may not attach (implant) and develop into a pregnancy. Emergency contraception does not interrupt an implanted pregnancy.

This method of treatment is not 100% effective. If treatment fails and pregnancy occurs, the patient must accept the risk involved should she decide to continue the pregnancy. However there is no evidence that this treatment will increase the risk of birth defects.

Some minor reactions to the pills may include nausea and/or vomiting, breast tenderness, irregular bleeding and headache.

Emergency contraception (Plan B) is available through Old Dominion University Student Health Services. ODU Students 18 years and older can obtain Plan B at Student Health without an appointment.  If you need emergency contraception, come to the Student Health Center during normal working hours and let the receptionist know that you need Plan B.  You will be required to show a picture ID (such as a driver's license) to verify your age.  Plan B will be discretely dispensed to you at the front desk.  Your account will be billed for Plan B or you can use Monarch Plus to pay for it.  You will be asked to sign a form to acknowledge receipt of the medication.  Students under 18 years of age can obtain Plan B at Student Health, but will need to make a same day appointment to see a healthcare provider.

When the Student Health Center is closed, Plan B is available over-the-counter for individuals 18 years of age and older.  Read the package insert to answer any questions you may have before taking the medication.

On weekends and holidays, students under the age of 18 who need emergency contraception should contact Campus Police at 683-4000 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.  Campus Police will contact the on-call clinician who will call the student.

More information is available at www.go2planB.com or www.webMD.com.