What Is Plan B?
What Is Plan B?
Before you make any decisions, it’s important to understand what Plan B is and how it works.
Plan B—often called the “morning-after pill”—is available over the counter and is typically taken after unprotected sex. Its purpose is to delay or prevent the release of an egg. If taken soon after sex, it may reduce the chance of pregnancy starting. However, it does not cause a miscarriage or end an existing pregnancy. 1, 3, 4
Things to Know Before Taking Plan B
Just because Plan B is easy to buy doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. Keep in mind:
- It’s a high dose of hormones that can cause noticeable side effects.2, 5
- It isn’t intended for regular use and should not replace birth control. 1, 3, 5
- It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
- It may be less effective if you are on certain medications or if your body weight is higher.5, 6
If you’re worried about pregnancy, it’s okay to take a step back and get real answers first. You don’t have to rush. Schedule an appointment—at no cost—with Pregnancy Help 4 U.
Possible Side Effects and Risks of Plan B
Like any medication, Plan B can cause side effects, such as:
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Tiredness, dizziness, or headaches
- Breast tenderness
- Cramping or abdominal pain
- Spotting or bleeding between periods
- Changes in your next period (earlier, later, heavier, or lighter than usual)2, 5, 6
If you experience physical symptoms or emotional distress, support is available. You are not alone. Call or Text 817-753-6222 to seek help. You can meet with a licensed medical professional at Pregnancy Help 4 U for free and confidential information.
If you ever experience severe symptoms or feel your health is at risk, seek emergency medical care right away.
You’re Not Alone in This
You deserve support and trustworthy information—not pressure.
Before you take anything, connect with a licensed professional who will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and care about you as a person. We are here to walk with you as you consider your next step.
- Mayo Clinic. Morning-after pill. Accessed July 2, 2024.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/morning-after-pill/about/pac-20394730
- Mayo Clinic. Levonorgestrel (oral route) – Side effects & dosage. Accessed December 31, 2025.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/levonorgestrel-oral-route/description/drg-20074413
- Mayo Clinic News Network. Women’s Wellness: The morning-after pill. Published January 2, 2020.
https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/womens-wellness-the-morning-after-pill/
- Mayo Clinic Press. Emergency contraception versus termination of pregnancy. Published June 24, 2024.
https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/women-health/emergency-contraception-versus-termination-of-pregnancy-understanding-the-difference/
- Cleveland Clinic. Morning-after pill: Emergency contraception & side effects. Published November 21, 2024.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23386-morning-after-pill
- Cleveland Clinic. Levonorgestrel Emergency Contraceptive Kit. Accessed via Cleveland Clinic Health Library. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18589-levonorgestrel-emergency-contraceptive-kit