Emergency Contraception (ECPs)

• Student Health Services provides Emergency Contraception for a fee.

• Available on walk-in basis, no scheduled appointment necessary.

• In order to get ECPs, a student must meet with a healthcare provider.

• A pregnancy test will be performed at the health center to determine that you are not already pregnant.

• Information on how ECPs work will be provided and you will have an opportunity to ask questions. 

What is Emergency Contraception?
Emergency contraception prevents pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse. 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.

Emergency contraception pills (ECP) consists of hormones used in oral contraceptives.   ECPs are most effective if used within the first 72 hours.

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. 

For more information:
http://ec.princeton.edu/

http://www.getthepill.com/