Hello, I'm Dr. Emily, a board-certified OB/GYN. I understand you're asking about Plan B and pregnancy. This is a very important question, and I want to be sure you have accurate information.

**Plan B, also known as the morning-after pill, is a type of emergency contraception.** It's designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if a birth control method has failed.

**It's crucial to understand that Plan B does not work if you are already pregnant.** Plan B works by preventing ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary. If you are already pregnant, ovulation has already occurred and the egg has been fertilized. Therefore, Plan B will have no effect.

**Here's why it's important to know if you are pregnant before taking Plan B:**

* **Plan B is not safe for use during pregnancy.** While it's generally considered safe for women who are not pregnant, there's no conclusive evidence about its safety during pregnancy. There's a potential risk of harm to the developing fetus.
* Plan B is not a form of abortion. It does not terminate an existing pregnancy.

If you suspect you may be pregnant:

* Take a pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests are readily available at drugstores and are highly accurate.
* Consult with a healthcare provider. Your doctor can confirm your pregnancy status and provide guidance on next steps.

**Here's some additional information about Plan B:**

* Effectiveness: Plan B is most effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, but its effectiveness decreases over time.
* Side effects: Common side effects of Plan B include nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, and abdominal cramps.
* Prescription: While Plan B is available over-the-counter, it's always advisable to consult with your doctor before taking it. They can assess your individual circumstances and provide personalized advice.

Remember: It's always best to practice safe sex methods to prevent unwanted pregnancies. If you have concerns about your sexual health or reproductive health, please don't hesitate to reach out to a trusted medical professional.

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Plan B contains only the progestin levonorgestrel. Plan B is not the same as RU-486, the abortion pill marketed as Mifeprex in the United States. You should not take Plan B if you are already pregnant since it will not work; however, taking Plan B if you are pregnant will not cause birth defects.read more >>