Emergency
Contraception

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Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy if used within 72 hours of unprotected sex.  Combined estrogen/ pro-gestin pills reduce the risk of pregnancy by 75%1, and progestin-only pills reduce the risk of pregnancy by 89%2.

An IUD may also be inserted up to 5 days after unprotected intercourse as a form of Emergency Contraception and reduce the risk of pregnancy by 99%3.  However, IUDs are not right for everyone and must be inserted by a trained professional.  Ask your provider which method is best for you.

ECPs prevent pregnancy the same way birth control pills do.  They are NOT RU486.  They do not cause an abortion nor do they harm an existing pregnancy. Women can get ECPs to have on hand in case they need them. 

ECPs are available at selected pharmacies in Washington State without a prescription and are available at clinics or doctor’s offices in your area. ECPs are also available online.  Use the link above (1-888-NOT-2-LATE) to find a pharmacy, provider, or online provider in your area or use the link below to find a clinic near you. 

If you have been sexually assaulted, information and ECPs are available through hospital emergency rooms in Washington State.

It is our goal to increase availability of emergency contraceptive pills (ECP's) throughout the state in an effort to reduce unintended pregnancies.

²Plan B Brochure - Emergency Contraception

³Emergency Contraception - Copper-T IUD

NOTE:  Links to eternal resources are provided as a public service and do not imply endorsement by the Washington State Department of Health. 

Contact a clinic near you to find out if you qualify for Free or low-cost Emergency Contraception pills!

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Washington State Department of Health

Family Planning and Reproductive Health

PO Box 47883
Olympia, Washington, 98504-7883

Last Update : 08/11/2006 10:26 AM
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