Emergency Contraception
What is emergency contraception? Emergency contraception, also known as the "morning-after pill" or by its brand name, Plan B, is a concentrated dose of ordinary birth control. If you've had unprotected sex (including condom breakage, missed pills, etc.) and are worried you may become pregnant, taking emergency contraception within 5 days can substantially reduce your risk of becoming pregnant. It is more effective the sooner it is taken, and has no effect if you're already pregnant. Emergency contraception is different than "the abortion pill," or RU-486. Emergency contraception does NOT cause an abortion. It in no way terminates a pregnancy, and will have no effect on an existing pregnancy. How does it work? Emergency contraception is made of the same hormones found in birth control pills. For more information about how emergency contraception works, visit the manufacturer's website, Go2PlanB.com. How effective is it? When emergency contraception is taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, it reduces your risk of pregnancy by up to 89%. In other words, it prevents pregnancy in about 7 out of 8 women who would otherwise become pregnant. The sooner it is taken (ideally, within the first 24 hours), the more effective it is. Who can buy emergency contraception? Anyone (men or women) age 18 or over can buy emergency contraception over the counter, without a prescription. Women age 17 and younger who need emergency contraception should contact their health care provider or clinic for a prescription. Anyone 18 or over can buy emergency contraception over the counter without a prescription. Where can I buy it? Emergency contraception can be purchased at pharmacies across the state. To find out which pharmacies in your area stock emergency contraception, click here. South Dakota law does allow pharmacists to refuse to dispense emergency contraception, even if they work at a pharmacy that stocks it. Be sure to call ahead to make sure the pharmacist on duty will provide you with emergency contraception. How much does it cost? Emergency contraception costs between $10 and $70, depending on where it is purchased. It can be helpful to call ahead to your pharmacy to ask about the price before you arrive. What if I have additional questions? If you have more questions about emergency contraception, visit Go2PlanB.com. You can also contact your health care provider, clinic, or pharmacist. | 
