Plan B pills can prevent pregnancy following sex without birth control. We have picked the best alternatives for overnight shipping, bulk-buying, and most affordable pills.
Plan B and its alternatives are suitable for people who have forgotten to take their birth control pill, did not use any barrier methods during sex, or used a broken condom.
A quick look at the best Plan B alternatives
What is emergency contraception?
Best affordable: My Choice
My Choice is a levonorgestrel pill that is effective when taken within 3 days of engaging in sexual activity.
It can cause:
- menstrual changes
- tiredness
- dizziness
- nausea
- breast pain
My Choice is one of the cheapest Plan B alternatives, with each pill costing just over $6. People also have the option of buying up to 5 packets at a time.
Comparing the best Plan B alternatives
This table provides a comparison between the available Plan B alternatives:
| Plan B alternative | Form | Who is it suitable for | Price | Prescription required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ella | pill | people with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or less | $45 | yes |
| Take Action | pill | people weighing less than 155 pounds (lbs) | $39.99 | no |
| AfterPill | pill | people weighing less than 155 lbs | $20 | no |
| My Choice | pill | people weighing less than 155 lbs | $11.99 | no |
How to choose emergency contraception
There are various types of emergency contraception available. Some options will work for one person but may be unsuitable for others.
Some factors to consider when choosing the right emergency contraception include:
- Weight: Ella can be less effective in people with higher body weight.
- Convenience: Some emergency contraception pills require no prescription and are available to purchase online for people who cannot leave their house. Getting a copper intrauterine (IUD) device requires a trip to the doctor’s office, which is not always an option for some people.
- Sexual activity: Emergency contraception is typically effective for up to 5 days, but this depends on the last time a person had sex without contraception. People buying the Ella pill should take it as soon as they can.
- Breastfeeding: Ella’s manufacturer recommends against taking this pill if a person is breastfeeding. Plan B pills and copper IUDs do not affect breast milk.
Is having multiple packs of Plan B a good idea?
Plan B and their alternatives only work if people take them within a certain time after having sex. While people can usually buy OTC emergency contraception from their local pharmacy, sometimes it may be out of stock. Also, many online companies will deliver emergency contraception in 3 to 5 days after ordering.
People may prefer to buy multiple packs of Plan B and have them at home in a secure place to ensure they will have the emergency contraception on hand in case of contraceptive failure. Some companies may even offer bulk-buy discounts, which may be more cost effective than only buying the pill when needed.
However, it is always important to store emergency contraception as the manufacturer states. If a person buys multiple packs, it is vital that they check the best-before date and replace any medication that is out of date.
Frequently asked questions
Emergency contraception comes at different prices.
People who have an insurance plan may be eligible for free contraception. It is best to contact the insurance provider to check what type of coverage they offer.
Anyone opting for Ella will require a prescription. However, other emergency contraception pills are available without a prescription.
Individuals can buy pills containing levonorgestrel from drugstores, pharmacies, and online providers.
However, those buying Ella pill will have to speak with a doctor to obtain a prescription.
Summary
There are many Plan B alternatives for emergency contraception, such as the Ella, Take Action, and My Choice pills. Someone can also get a Paragard IUD, which is suitable for regular use. The best option depends on various factors, such as the individual’s weight and whether they are breastfeeding.
Costs can vary, but some people are eligible for free contraception through their health insurance provider. Health professionals can provide advice on the best type of birth control or emergency contraceptive.