MyUHS/CMHC Portal
Contact
About Healthyhorns Who we are, resources, and more
University Health Services Medical care and public health leadership
Counseling and Mental Health Center Mental health support
Longhorn Wellness Center Prevention, education and outreach

Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception, also known as the "morning-after pill," is a form of birth control used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse. It is a safe and effective option when used correctly within a specific timeframe following unprotected sex, contraceptive failure or sexual assault.

Oral emergency contraception works by suppressing ovulation. It will not work if you have already ovulated. Emergency contraception is only useful for the prevention of pregnancy—it will not affect an existing pregnancy. Emergency contraception is not the same as abortion pills.

Emergency contraception is not intended for routine use as a method of birth control, as there are more effective and affordable long-term options.

Types of Emergency Contraception

Emergency Contraceptive Pills:

Oral medications that you can purchase online or over the counter at most drugstores, pharmacies and grocery stores (Plan B One-Step, Next Choice One Dose, etc.). There are no gender or age restrictions to purchase emergency contraception.

  • You can take emergency contraception pills within 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex to avoid pregnancy—but it becomes less effective with every hour that passes, so it should be used as soon as possible for maximum effectiveness. The pill is considerably less effective after 72 hours and will not be effective at all if someone has already ovulated.

Prescription Emergency Contraceptive Pill:

ella™ is the only prescription brand of emergency contraception pill. Like other pill-based forms of emergency contraception, ella™ is not restricted by age or gender.

  • ella™ is equally effective at preventing pregnancy for up to 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sex.

Paragard Copper or Levonorgestrel Intrauterine Device (IUD):

A copper or hormonal IUD can be inserted into the uterus up to 5 days after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. It works by inhibiting sperm movement and fertilization, and it may also affect the implantation of a fertilized egg.

Emergency Contraception and Weight

Current medical literature has found that the effectiveness of emergency contraception pills can be impacted by body weight. The most effective option for people of all weights is to have an IUD inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex. For those who may not want an IUD, the most effective emergency contraception option for people of all weights is ella™.

If you weigh over 165 pounds, emergency contraception pills such as Plan B will be less effective, and ella™ will be more effective. If you weigh over 195 pounds, ella™ will not be as effective. It is recommended to consult a healthcare provider for help on deciding what type of emergency contraception to take.

University Health Services Emergency Contraception

You can call the UHS 24/7 Nurse Advice Line at 512-475-6877 for emergency contraception information. You can also schedule an appointment at the UHS Gynecology Clinic to discuss emergency contraception options, get a prescription for ella™ or get the emergency contraception pill for immediate use. Schedule online within the My UHS/CMHC portal or by calling 512-475-8242.

UT Austin students can also get over-the-counter healthcare products, including emergency contraception, and prescription medications delivered. Learn more here.