Emergency Contraception
The Student Health Center provides emergency contraception for a fee which can be charged to your Eagle One card or your student account at the time of your appointment. Emergency contraception works best if used as soon as possible and within 72 hours after sexual intercourse.
What is Emergency Contraception?
Emergency contraception prevents pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse and is most effective if used with the first 72 hours of unprotected intercourse. Emergency contraception pills (ECP) consist of hormones used in oral contraceptives. Emergency contraception can be used when a condom breaks, after a sexual assault, or when unprotected sexual intercourse occurs.
Emergency contraception is not the same as the RU486 (abortion pill). It will not interfere with an existing pregnancy. It is meant for emergencies only and should not be used as an ongoing method of contraception. Additionally, emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Depending on the time they are taken during the menstrual cycle, ECPs may inhibit or delay ovulation, alter transport of the egg or sperm, interfere with fertilization, or alter the lining of the uterus thereby inhibiting implantation of a fertilized egg.
Emergency contraception is also available at Giant Pharmacy and CVS Pharmacy when the Student Health Center is closed. No prescription is necessary. The cost is a bit higher at these pharmacies.
Giant: 540-371-7790
CVS: 540-373-4607