FREE Reproductive Health Kits

What is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency Contraception or “EC” (Levonorgestrel 1.5mg) helps prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. EC is most effective when taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex. But the sooner you take it the better. There are many brand names for Emergency Contraception pill, such as Plan B, Julie, Morning After Pill, etc. TBAF’s reproductive health kits will include one of the brands, as our supplies allow. As a reminder: this is a PRE-NEED program; Our Emergency Contraception (EC) shipments are only for before you need them. If you need EC right away, our shipment will not get to you in time. If needed right away, consider an in person pick up at one of our supporting business/organization’s EC basket locations, listed on this link.

Additional information about EC:

There is limited research on the effectiveness of Levonorgestrel 1.5mg based on weight. While some studies show it lowers effectiveness, others do not. Which is confusing, we know. Important – pregnancy rates after using EC for anyone— regardless of weight— were less than 3%. So while it may technically be less effective if you weigh more, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t work. Some people take double doses of Levonorgestrel (for a total of 3mg) in an attempt to increase effectiveness, but just know that there are no studies currently that show that this is more effective. Cost and side effects are usually the main downside of a double dose. Find the list of side effects here. Time, more than weight, is a major factor in the effectiveness of Levonorgestrel. The quicker you are able to take EC after unprotected sex— the better!

EC is intended for use after unprotected sex. If you have unprotected sex multiple times, consider the first time the start of the 72 hour window in which you should take EC. If you have unprotected sex after taking EC, you will need to take another dose of EC.

Emergency Contraception (EC) is a form of backup birth control that can be used several days after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure to prevent pregnancy. You may want to use EC if a condom broke, if you missed taking some of your regular birth control pills, if you had unprotected sex, or if you were a victim of sexual assault. EC does not prevent sexually transmitted diseases. EC does not terminate a pregnancy.

How does it work? What are EC’s “mechanisms of action”? 

The way EC works is described as its “mechanism of action”. Different forms of emergency contraceptives use one or several mechanisms of action to prevent pregnancy. These are: delaying or inhibiting ovulation, preventing implantation, and preventing fertilization. Delaying or inhibiting ovulation is known to be the primary mechanism of action for most methods of emergency contraceptives (this is important to know!). 

EC can be provided in four ways: Progestin-Only, Ulipristal Acetate, The Yuzpe Method, Copper IUD. (You can read more about these options at resources like Bedsider.) Each of these options have limited time windows and are the most effective the sooner you take them. “Plan B” and “Julie” (what TBAF includes in our kits), are “Progestin-Only”: This is the most common form of emergency contraceptive and is effective at preventing pregnancy up to 72 hours or 3 days after unprotected sex. This hormonal medication is called levonorgestrel. 

What are the possible side effects of Plan B?

Some folks may experience: 

• A period that is atypical (ie: lighter, heavier, earlier, and/or later than usual)
  • Spotting or bleeding may occur prior to your next period. If your period is more than 1 week late, you may be pregnant. Take a pregnancy test and check-in with a healthcare provider. 
• Nausea
• Lower abdominal cramps 
• Fatigue 
• Headache 
• Diarrhea 
• Dizziness 
• Breast pain or tenderness 
• Vomiting (If you vomit within 2 hours of taking oral emergency contraception, reach out to a healthcare provider to understand if an additional dose is appropriate).

I have safety concerns. What should I be aware of? 

• Conflicting drugs/supplements, medical conditions and/or allergies:
  • Several drugs and herbal supplements decrease the effectiveness of Plan B. We recommend that folks closely read the Plan B One-Step Fact Sheet and, if possible, consult with a medical provider/physician prior to taking Plan B. 
  • Alcohol does not impact the efficacy of emergency contraception. 
• Breastfeeding:
  • No adverse effects (on breastfeeder and baby) have been found for women and parents that use it while breastfeeding.
• Using emergency contraception while on permanent/hormonal birth control:
  • Taking an emergency contraception pill because you have missed the dosage of permanent or hormonal birth control—like a missed patch, ring, pill, and/or injection? Plan B does not conflict with the hormones in birth control pills because it is a higher dosage of levonorgestrel. However, it may not be any more effective than a Mirena IUD, given its high pregnancy prevention rate—99%. Thus, you may continue your regular form of birth control right away. Or start one if you don’t have a sustained method already!
• Fertility and/or family planning:
  • There is zero evidence to support EC inhibiting someone’s fertility or ability to conceive in the future.

Is there a weight limit for emergency contraceptive pills? 

No, not technically. But if your body weighs more than 155 lbs, some research shows that the recommended dosage of one pill is less effective. You may choose to consider another form of emergency contraception (like “Ella”) or take a second tablet. 

NOTE: There is limited research on the effectiveness of Levonorgestrel 1.5mg, known most commonly under the brand Plan B One Step, based on weight. While some studies show it lowers effectiveness, others do not. Which is confusing, we know. We aren’t medical professionals, but here’s what some internet sleuthing has told us: the World Health Organization (WHO) considers Levonorgestrel 1.5mg as LESS effective for people who have a BMI over 30 (or weigh over 165lbs). That said, pregnancy rates after using EC for anyone— regardless of weight— were less than 3%. So while it may technically be less effective if you weigh more, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t work. Time, more than weight, is a major factor in the effectiveness of Levonorgestrel. The quicker you are able to take EC after unprotected sex— the better!

Is the abortion pill the same as Plan B, the morning-after pill?

(From PlanCPills.org)

No, it’s not the same. Plan B is emergency contraception that can be taken up to 5 days after unprotected sex if birth control fails or isn’t available. It prevents pregnancy.

Plan C refers to abortion pills (Mifepristone + Misoprostol) that can be taken after a missed period, recommended up to 13 weeks of pregnancy.

We believe everyone should have access to all the options:

• Plan A: Birth control to prevent pregnancy.
• Plan B: Emergency contraception (the morning-after pill) to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex.
• Plan C: Abortion pills to end a pregnancy.

More information/resources about emergency contraceptives (EC):

• “Where can I get free Plan B near me?,” INeedAnA: https://www.ineedana.com/blog/where-can-i-get-free-plan-b-near-me
• “Emergency Contraception,” Bedsider: https://www.bedsider.org/birth-control/emergency_contraception
• “Emergency Contraception,” Kaiser Family Foundation: https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/emergency-contraception/
• Plan B, FAQs: https://www.planbonestep.com/faqs/
• Julie, FAQs: https://juliecare.co/pages/faqs
• ella, FAQs: https://www.ellarx.com/pages/faqs
• “Emergency Contraception: History and Access,” Planned Parenthood: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/files/5713/9611/6188/Emergency_Contraception_History_and_Access.pdf
• “Emergency Contraception,” World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/emergency-contraception#:~:text=Emerge%20ncy%20contraception%20(EC)%20can%20prevent,assault%20if%20without%20contraception%20%20coverage.
• “Emergency Contraception: How It Works, How Effective It Is and How To Get It,” NPR: https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/07/08/1109875418/plan-b-emergency-contrac eption-effective
• “Emergency Contraception: Access and Challenges at Times of Uncertainty,” Richard A. Stein et al.: https://journals.lww.com/americantherapeutics/fulltext/2022/10000/emergency_contraception__access_and_challenges_at.8.aspx
• “About abortion pills: Is the abortion pill the same as Plan B, the morning-after pill?,” PlanCPills.org: https://www.plancpills.org/guide-how-to-get-abortion-pills#about-abortion-pills

Opill is a full prescription strength over-the-counter birth control pill that’s suitable for most people who can become pregnant. It contains only one hormone, progestin (norgestrel), and is estrogen free. When used as directed, Opill is 98% effective at preventing pregnancy.

There are many different types of contraception available, and you should be able to find the right method for you. The different contraceptive options are listed at https://www.bedsider.org/birth-control. You can ask your healthcare provider(s) for advice.

Opill is a progestin only, over-the-counter birth control pill that is to be taken everyday. Opill is approved by the FDA for over-the-counter use for people of all ages and gender identities without a prescription and without having to talk to a pharmacist or other health care provider. 

How does it work?

Opill is a daily birth control pill that contains only one hormone (progestin) and is estrogen-free. Opill works by thickening the cervical mucus, which helps block sperm from reaching the egg. In addition, Opill prevents ovaries from releasing eggs in some cycles. Opill is 98% effective at preventing pregnancy when used as directed. It starts working 48 hours after you take the first pill. Make sure to keep using a barrier method such as condoms for the first two days to prevent pregnancy, or in case you are late taking the pill. 

Before you start taking Opill, there are two things you need to know:

1. It’s very important to take Opill every single day at the same time:
   1. Without breaks, and 
   2. Even if you have changes in your menstrual period.
2. It takes 2 days for Opill to start working so use a condom (or other barrier method) every time you have sex for the next 2 days (48 hours):
   1. After you start your first pack of Opill
   2. If you take a tablet more than 3 hours late or miss a tablet on 1 or more days
   3. If you vomit or have severe diarrhea within 4 hours of taking a tablet

Can I skip my period with Opill?

No, unlike other birth control, the Opill is progestin only and has no placebo pills. It is important to not skip any days while taking Opill.

Does it matter when I start taking it?

You can start your first pack on any day of your cycle. Just make sure that you take it at the same time EVERYDAY. If you miss a day, make sure you use a backup method, like a condom, when having sex.

Who should not take it?

Do not use Opill if you have or ever had breast cancer, if you are already pregnant or if you already have a birth control method in use, such as an IUD. Also, do not use Opill if you have a FD&C yellow No.5 (tartrazine) allergy. People allergic to aspirin often have a tartrazine allergy too.

Does my weight affect the use of Opill?

There are no restrictions for use of Opill based on weight.

Opill medication information:

• Opill does NOT protect individuals from HIV/AIDS or other sexually transmitted diseases. Opill is NOT an emergency contraceptive and does not prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex.
• There is no age restriction for request of Opill. The safety and efficacy of Opill tablets have been established in women (People with a uterus) of reproductive age. Opill can be used by those under 18 years of age with no need for parental consent.
• Routine gynecological examinations and screenings should remain a priority, but there is no need for examinations or tests prior to initiation of progestin-only pills such as Opill.
• Opill should not be used by people who:
  • Have or ever had breast cancer,
  • Have allergies to this product or any of its ingredients, such as the color additive FD&C yellow No. 5 (tartrazine),
  • Are currently using another birth control pill, vaginal ring, patch, implant, injection, or intrauterine device (IUD),
  • Are pregnant or think they may be pregnant,
  • Are male.
• Individuals should consult with a healthcare provider prior to starting Opill if they:
  • Currently have vaginal bleeding between periods and have not already consulted with a physician,
  • Have liver tumors or a liver disease,
  • Have or ever had any cancer,
  • Are on hormone replacement therapy.
• 
 There are no restrictions for use of Opill based on weight.

For further information about using progestin-only contraception in these situations, please refer to the Opill package leaflet.

More information/resources about Opill (birth control pills):

• “Everything you need to know about Opill, the new over-the-counter birth control pill,” Bedsider: bedsider.org/features/2595-everything-you-need-to-know-about-opill-the-new-over-the-counter-birth-control-pill 
• “How Opill Works,” Opill: opill.com/pages/about-opill

External condoms, which are usually just called condoms, are one type of barrier method of birth control, which means that they prevent pregnancy by physically blocking sperm from getting to eggs. Condoms fit snugly over the penis so that when ejaculation happens, the semen (the whitish fluid that contains sperm) stays inside the condom and out of the vagina, which keeps sperm away from any eggs. Each condom can only be used one time.

Condoms are one of the most popular forms of birth control out there, and there are lots of types made of different materials, in different sizes, with lube and without, and in different colors, flavors, and textures. There are also internal condoms, which are placed inside the vagina instead of being placed over the penis.

Condoms and internal condoms are the only kinds of birth control that help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well as preventing pregnancy. But not all condoms are effective against STIs. Natural membrane condoms, sometimes called lambskin or natural skin condoms, are the one type of condom that does not prevent STIs. Natural membrane condoms are not as commonly used, but they are one of the condom options that are safe for people with latex allergies.

Quick Facts about condoms:

• Effectiveness: Condoms are pretty effective the way most people use them.
  • Perfect use: 98% effective
  • Typical use: 87% effective
  • TLDR; Very effective if you use them correctly, but not super effective the way most people use them. Hormone free, protect against STIs, and don’t require a prescription, but they do require work.
• Hormones: Condoms are hormone-free.
• Side effects: If you’re sensitive, they could cause a little irritation. They may reduce sensation slightly when you’re having sex.
• STI protection: Condoms can offer STI protection as well as pregnancy prevention.
• Ongoing effort: You have to make sure to use condoms correctly every time in order for them to be effective at preventing pregnancy and STIs.

Some tips for using condoms made of different materials:

• Latex Condoms: These are the most commonly used condoms. Make sure not to use them with oil-based lube, which includes massage oil, coconut oil, some lotions, and petroleum jelly. Oil-based lube can cause latex condoms to break. Use water-based or silicone-based lube instead.
• Non-latex Condoms: If you’re allergic to latex, these may be for you. They’re usually made from polyurethane, polyisoprene, or other synthetic materials, and they’re just as good at protecting you from STIs as latex condoms are. Most kinds of non-latex condoms cannot be used safely with oil-based lube because it can cause them to break. So your best bet will be water-based or silicone-based lube.
• Spermicidal Condoms: These condoms are lubricated with a chemical that kills sperm. Even though spermicide on its own can prevent pregnancy, spermicidal condoms aren’t actually any better than non-spermicidal condoms at preventing pregnancy. And if the spermicide used is nonoxynol-9, keep in mind that it may cause irritation, which increases the risk of getting HIV and other STIs. It can also increase the risk of urinary tract infections.
• Natural membrane condoms: These are sometimes called lambskin condoms. They are the only type of condom that does not prevent STIs. Natural membrane condoms are not as commonly used, but they are one of the condom options that are safe for people with latex allergies. Oil-based lube is okay to use with natural membrane condoms—they’re not broken down by the oils.

Condom Storage Tips:

• Condoms are very durable, but they can be damaged by extreme heat, extreme cold, and sharp objects. They do expire, so check the expiration date.

• DO store condoms in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight like a bedside drawer or purse.

• DO keep extra condoms on hand in case one is expired or damaged or you make a mistake while using it.
• DON’T store condoms in your glove compartment or any other place that gets extremely cold or hot. This can damage or degrade the condom (e.g., freezing from cold or wearing down from heat).

• DON’T keep condoms in a place near sharp objects like pens and scissors, as this can tear the condom or the wrapping, causing the condom to dry out.
• DON’T carry condoms your back pocket or wallet. This can cause the condom to wear down and should only be used for temporary storage.

More information/resources about condoms:

• “Condom,” Bedsider: https://www.bedsider.org/birth-control/condom
• “Proper Condom Storage,” LifeStyles: https://lifestyles.com/blogs/sexual-health-safe-sex/proper-condom-storage
• “Where to Store Condoms and Keep Them Discreet,” Durex: https://www.durexusa.com/blogs/explore-sex/where-to-store-condoms-and-keep-them-discreet?srsltid=AfmBOoon5enz-Uh2kX8_lf7WJLEAzWyzvWeb1MPAgnZCaJfxnaYUUl7w

Pregmate Test Strips are a “…home use test device intended for the rapid detection of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) in urine to aid in the early detection of pregnancy. It is intended for over-the-counter (OTC) use.”

Plainly put: Pregmate Test Strips are pregnancy test strips. These strips may look smaller/different from what you usually see at a grocery store, but they are the same thing (without the outer plastic casing). Because they are smaller than the well-known pregnancy tests, you will need to use a test cup for urine collection, and dip the strip in the test cup (see directions below).

How do you use a pregnancy test strip?

1. Collect urine: In a clean, dry container or Pregmate Test Cup.
2. Dip the strip for 5 sec: Do not pass the MAX line. Count slowly or use a timer.
3. Lay the strip flat: Clean, dry, non-absorbent surface.
4. Read result in 5 min: Use a timer. Do not read after 5 min.

How do you read the results?

• Positive pregnancy test: Two color bands appear in the control and test areas. Even a faint colored line in the test area is a positive result. This indicates that hCG has been detected and you may be pregnant.
• Negative pregnancy test: Only one color band appears in the control area. No apparent band in the test area. This indicates that no pregnancy has been detected. If you tested early, retest in 48 hours.
• Invalid: No visible band at all, or there is a visible band only in the test area and not in the control area. Repeat with a new test strip.

A home pregnancy test is a screening tool and should not be used as the only basis for diagnosis. Your healthcare provider should confirm pregnancy based on a full clinical evaluation. A few things to keep in mind:

• Diluted urine can cause a false negative. If you drank a lot of fluid before testing, or if your sample was very light in color, retest in 48 hours with first-morning urine.
• Very early pregnancy can also produce a negative. hCG may not have reached the 25 mIU/mL detection level yet. Retest in 48 hours.
• Fertility medications containing hCG (such as trigger shots) can cause a false positive. If you’re using these, ask your doctor when to test.
• hCG levels alone cannot distinguish a normal pregnancy from an ectopic pregnancy.

Tip: Faint, shadow, or white lines without color are part of the reagent area on the test strip. You may see them if you look closely or if the strip gets wet. They are not positive results. A faint line can also appear if the test is read after the 5-minute window. A true positive has visible color in the test area within 5 minutes. If you see a very faint color and aren’t sure, retest in 48 hours.

Storage & expiration: Store at room temperature (see package for exact range). Do not use it after the expiration date or if the pouch is damaged.

Disposal: After reading the test, at 5 minutes, discard the test in household trash. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

How early can I test?

You may test up to 5 days before your missed period (that is, 4 days before the day you expect your period). Because hCG levels vary by person and can be low early on, an early negative does not rule out pregnancy. If you test early and get a Negative, wait 48 hours and test again.

Why retest after 48 hours?

In early pregnancy, hCG usually rises every 48–72 hours. Waiting two days can turn an early negative into a positive if you are pregnant.

I have irregular cycles. When should I test?

If your period timing is uncertain, test at least 19 days after the last time you had unprotected sex. If Negative and no period one week later, test again or speak with your healthcare provider.

How accurate is the test?

When used as directed from the day of your expected period, home urine pregnancy tests are over 99% accurate at detecting pregnancy hormone in laboratory studies.

What hormone does the test detect and at what level?

• The test detects hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in urine. Analytical sensitivity: 25 mIU/mL.
• Plain language: once hCG in urine reaches about 25 mIU/mL, the test can typically detect it.

Which medications can affect results?

• Can affect results (may cause a false positive): Medicines that contain hCG, such as some fertility “trigger shots” (e.g., Pregnyl®, Profasi®). If you used an hCG trigger, your clinic may advise waiting 10–14 days before home testing.
• Do NOT affect results: Clomiphene citrate (Clomid®), common pain relievers, antibiotics, alcohol, and hormonal contraception (birth control pills, patches, rings), and emergency contraception (Plan B®).

NOTE: If you’re taking a pregnancy test after an abortion:

It’s important to know that, if you’re taking a pregnancy test after an abortion, a false positive can happen up to two weeks after having an in-clinic or medication abortion. This is because your hormone levels are still reflecting your previous pregnancy, and it takes a little time for them to go back to normal. It’s important to know that you can get pregnant right after your abortion.

More information/resources about pregnancy tests:

• “Pregnancy Tests FAQs,” Pregmate:https://www.pregmate.com/pages/pregnancy-tests
• “What Is the Difference Between Cheap and Expensive Pregnancy Tests?,” WhatToExpect: https://www.whattoexpect.com/getting-pregnant/prepping-for-pregnancy/cheap-expensive-pregnancy-tests-difference/
• M+A Hotline: https://www.instagram.com/p/DZnKvDWgy5b