At CHOICES, we believe knowledge is power, especially in regards to your reproductive health. Whether you’re planning ahead, facing the unexpected, or just curious, we’re here to clear the confusion. Here are the differences between Emergency Contraceptive, Birth Control, and the Abortion Pill (and where to get it!)
Emergency Contraceptive Pills
(AKA “Morning After Pill,” “Plan B,” “Levonorgestrel,” “EC”)
Did the condom break? Did you forget to take your birth control? Do you want to cover all your bases just in case? Is “it’s better to be safe than sorry” your go-to mantra? This guy is the pill for you!
Emergency Contraception is used as a way to prevent pregnancy directly after (or within 3 days) unprotected sex. The sooner this pill is taken, the more effective it will be. Levonorgestrel, a progestin hormone, works by temporarily delaying the release of an egg from the ovary. It will not terminate a pre-existing pregnancy, but it will prevent one from developing in a pinch. These pills are often sold individually or in two-packs at pharmacies and convenience stores, and (shhh don’t tell anyone but) many sexual and reproductive health clinics such as CHOICES offer them for free when we have them in stock!
Birth Control Pills
(AKA “The Pill”)
Do you like to come prepared? Are you consistently sexually active, but want to minimize the risk of pregnancy? Do you like the idea of options? BC may be your best choice!
Birth control is a proactive method to prevent pregnancy. There are many different options including IUDs, implants, and even patches, but many people confuse birth control pills with emergency contraceptives and abortion pills. Birth control pills are prescribed by a doctor, and are often intended to take daily at the same time in order to maintain effectiveness. These pills will not terminate a pregnancy, but can prevent it if taken as directed by your doctor. Here at CHOICES, we offer birth control services and can help determine which one is best for you!
Abortion Pills
(AKA “Plan C,” “Medication Abortion,” “Mifepristone/Misoprostol”)
Are you pregnant and don’t want to be? Do you want a non-invasive abortion? Can’t travel to a clinic for a procedure? Maybe you should consider medication abortion!
These pills, often a combination of Mifepristone and Misoprostol, can terminate an active pregnancy, typically within a 70 day term. Abortion pills are not available over the counter but may be prescribed or mailed by your physician. There is a common misconception that these pills are dangerous or harmful, but they are actually much safer than many over the counter drugs such as penicillin, Viagra, and acetaminophen. Pregnancy and childbirth are actually riskier than medication abortions, and serious problems with these medications are extremely rare. It is important to speak with your physician and to take them as prescribed. CHOICES’ clinic in Carbondale, IL can prescribe you these in person or through telehealth.
Your Body, Your CHOICES
(How CHOICES Provides Care for Everyone)
Practicing reproductive freedom and bodily autonomy can be difficult right now, and CHOICES recognizes that. Money should never be a reason for someone to avoid seeking care, so we are extremely proud to offer our Patient Assistance Fund to help make sure that our patients can afford to make their own decisions. This financial assistance is possible through our generous donors and supporters. If you are interested in our Patient Assistance Fund and would like to see if you qualify, you can speak with one of our lovely front desk receptionists at either of our clinic locations, or give us a call at (901) 274-3550. If you or someone you know would like to learn more about CHOICES in any way, you can visit our website here and find direct links to donate, buy merch, or sign up to become a volunteer!
