Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception can be used by those who wish to reduce the risk of pregnancy following unprotected sex or contraception failure.

There are three forms of emergency contraception: IUD insertion (Paragard, Mirena, and Liletta), levonorgestrel pills (Plan B and others), and ulipristal acetate tablets (Ella).

IUD is the most effective form of emergency  contraception and is effective if inserted up to five days after unprotected intercourse. IUDs provide ongoing contraception following insertion and work for bodies of any size. Consultations and appointments to insert an IUD can be made in MyUHS or by phone 608-265-5614. Call if appointments are not found online.

Plan B is available at pharmacies, including Walgreens, without a prescription for about $50. A generic form of Plan B, the EContraEZ pill, is available at Badger Markets inside Memorial Union and Union South for less than $20. Plan B is approved when taken within the first three days following unprotected sex, but is more effective the sooner it’s taken. Plan B has decreased efficacy for people who weigh more than 165 pounds.

Ella is a pill form of EC that is effective up to five days after unprotected intercourse and is more effective than Plan B on days four and five. A prescription, which can be obtained from UHS, is needed. Ella is effective for bodies of any size.