Same Day Appointments Available

Same Day Appointments Available

SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

how well plan b works - alcove health womens clinic newport news virginia

4 things that affect how well plan b works

Plan B may seem like the perfect solution, but there are factors that affect how well it will work for you

“I know I took Plan B. But why do I feel like this?  Wait, did I read ALL the instructions? Did I miss something? Is it possible? Could I really be pregnant? What do I really know about how well Plan B actually works…should I take a Free Pregnancy Tests just in case? Nah, I’m just freaking myself out for no reason. It’s probably just something I ate. I just need to calm down, relax, and wait a few more days for my period to start.”

Does this sound familiar? Are you waiting and wondering and wishing? You are not alone. And you don’t have to face this alone.  First, let’s answer the “Could I be pregnant” question. The answer is YES. You could be pregnant.

How is this possible? According to GoodRxHealth, one form of Plan B is about 89% effective when used within a certain time frame. Flo Health reports that the rate of effectiveness for a specific brand of Plan B drops from 95% to 61% within 48 to 72 hours. Wondering how well Plan B works? Well, it doesn’t work 100% of the time.

But timing is not the only factor. Here are four other factors that affect how well Plan B works:

Did you know that your ovulation cycle can affect how well Plan B works? According to Medical News Today, a woman may still get pregnant if she ovulates before taking the pill. This is just one more reason why it is important for you to understand how YOUR body works.

Our Registered Nurses can help you track and understand the timing of your period and ovulation cycle. They can also provide you with a list of local obstetricians and gynecologists who you can speak with about establishing routine medical care to protect y ourreproductive health.

Did you know that your weight may also affect how well Plan B works for you? According to Very Well Health, “Some research suggests that the morning-after pill is less effective in people who weigh more than 155 pounds or have a BMI above 25.” Healthline reports that the average weight of most 20-year-old women in the U.S. is about 170 pounds.

So, there are many women who may find that the Plan B is not as effective for them. Don’t assume that one size fits all. And don’t assume that taking twice the recommended amount of Plan B is going to make it more effective. Research reported by the Obstetrics & Gynecology journal showed that doubling the dose of Plan B did not make it more effective.

Did you know that certain drugs, herbs, or supplements can affect how well Plan B works? This is why it is better for women to speak with a medical professional BEFORE taking Plan B.

Your medical care provider should be able to give you a list of drugs that reduce the effectiveness of Plan B. Just because you can get it without a prescription does not mean you should not speak with a medical professional before taking it.

You know what else affects how well Plan B works? Pregnancy. You should know that Plan B does not work if you are already pregnant. And if there is a chance that you could be pregnant, we can help you find out for sure. You don’t have to settle for wondering and wishing. You need to know for sure!

Here at Alcove Health Women’s Clinic in Newport News, VA we can provide you with a free and confidential medical appointment so you can get the answers you need.

Call or click here for a no-cost pregnancy confirmation appointment. You can also receive FREE limited STI testing and an ultrasound, along with other great services including advocacy, referrals, and information about community resources. Reach out today.

By Karen, Client Advocate

August 7, 2023

LOCATION

HOURS

Find Out More Information On Our Blog