What are my Emergency Contraception options after Sexual Assault?
If you’ve experienced sexual assault, emergency contraception (EC) is a safe and effective way to reduce the risk of pregnancy. There are two main types of EC — both work best when taken as soon as possible, but you can still use them within 3–5 days after unprotected sex.
You do not need a police report or parental consent to access emergency contraception.
You have the right to make this decision on your own.
1. Plan B (Levonorgestrel)
Available over the counter with no prescription or ID needed
Most effective within 3 days (72 hours) after unprotected sex
May be less effective for people over 165 lbs
Sold under brand names like Plan B One-Step, Take Action, My Way, and generic Levonorgestrel
2. Ella (Ulipristal Acetate)
Available with a prescription
Effective up to 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sex
Works better than Plan B for people with higher body weight or who are closer to ovulation
Ask a doctor, urgent care, or telehealth provider for a quick prescription
Learn more about the differences between Plan B and Ella here.
3. Copper IUD (Paragard)
The most effective form of emergency contraception
Must be inserted by a healthcare provider within 5 days
Also serves as long-term birth control for up to 10 years
Not always accessible immediately after an assault, but worth asking about
Where to Get Emergency Contraception
Pharmacies: Plan B is often available behind the counter — just ask
its sold as a generic Levonorgestrel online for much cheaper
Urgent care clinics, hospitals, student health centers, and telehealth providers can help you access Ella or other options
Cost & Access Tips
Brand name Plan B usually costs $35–$50, but you may be able to get it for free at a local clinic or through a sexual assault response program. Generic Levonorgesteral is just as good and can be as cheap as $6.
Ella may be free or low-cost with insurance (but you need a prescription)
You can ask for "emergency contraception" without needing to disclose details of your assault if you don’t want to share.
