If you experienced contraceptive failure or think you may be pregnant, contact us for a free pregnancy testing appointment today. We can also provide information on Plan B, Julie, ella, and other emergency contraceptives.
If you are considering an emergency contraceptive, please note that although rare, each drug has rare side effects as well, including but not limited to abdominal distension, face edema, seizure, or stroke.
If you have any health conditions that may increase your risk of these side effects, please consult with your doctor before taking Plan B, Julie, ella or any other emergency contraceptive.
Morning-after pills are any type of emergency contraceptive used after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure (e.g., a broken condom) to attempt to prevent pregnancy. The morning-after pill, also known as Plan B, is the most commonly used emergency contraceptive. The morning-after pill is not the same as the abortion pill or a chemical abortion and should not be used to end a pregnancy.
Side effects can include stomach pain, breast pain or tenderness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, fatigue, pelvic pain, headaches, acne, upper genital tract infection, mood swings, decreased libido, vaginal discharge, weight gain, or changes in your menstrual periods, including your period being earlier or later than expected.
Women with larger bodies need to know that Plan B may be less effective as an emergency contraception. Studies suggest that Plan B may not work for women who weigh 165 pounds to 176 pounds. It’s even less effective in women who weigh over 176 pounds — especially those with a body mass index (BMI) at or above 30.
Julie is an emergency contraceptive that can be taken up to 72 hours after sex. Like other emergency contraceptives, it should not be used as regular birth control. Side effects include heavy menstrual bleeding, nausea, headaches, fatigue, pelvic pain, breast tenderness, and uterine spasms. Uterine perforation is rare but possible.
Ella can be taken up to five days after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. However, like most drugs, it’s essential to talk to a medical professional about your health history and potential side effects before taking an emergency contraceptive.
Side effects include cramping, heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, headaches, nausea, stomach pain, weakness or unusual tiredness, breast pain, chills, dizziness, hives, welts, redness of the skin, breakouts or pimples, changes to mood, amenorrhea, endometrial thickening, dysmenorrhea, and uterine hemorrhaging.
Fort Worth Pregnancy Center is a 501c3 non-profit in the state of Texas. All our services are provided at no cost to our clients. The education on this website is intended for general education purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional counseling, medical or prenatal care. Please note, our center does not perform nor refer for abortion services. Contact us to learn more.
