Red flags & when to go in person for Emergency Contraception (Plan B)

Audience: adult

Emergency contraception, often called Plan B, is a medication used to help prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It works best when taken as soon as possible, usually within 72 hours. While many people can safely use emergency contraception without seeing a healthcare provider in person, some situations require urgent medical attention. This guide helps you understand when telemedicine can support your needs and when you should seek in-person care. It also highlights important warning signs, or red flags, that mean you should go to an emergency room or clinic right away. Remember, this information is educational and does not replace personalized medical advice from a healthcare professional.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe abdominal pain or cramping that does not improve — seek emergency care immediately.
• Heavy vaginal bleeding soaking through two or more pads or tampons per hour for two hours — go to emergency services.
• Signs of allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or rash — get urgent medical help.

What telemedicine can do

• Providing information on how and when to take emergency contraception.
• Assessing timing and eligibility for emergency contraception use.
• Answering questions about common side effects and what to expect.
• Determining if symptoms require urgent in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or ultrasounds to confirm pregnancy status.
• Managing severe symptoms such as heavy bleeding or severe pain.
• Diagnosing or treating complications from emergency contraception.
• Providing emergency contraception if contraindications are suspected.

What is Emergency Contraception (Plan B)?

Emergency contraception is a pill that helps reduce the chance of pregnancy after unprotected sex or if your regular birth control didn't work. It contains hormones that delay ovulation or prevent fertilization. It is most effective when taken within 72 hours but can sometimes work up to 120 hours after sex. It is not meant to be used as a regular birth control method.

When Can Telemedicine Help?

Telemedicine can guide you on how to use emergency contraception, answer questions about timing and side effects, and help determine if Plan B is right for you. You can often get a prescription or advice through a virtual visit quickly, which is important because timing matters. Telemedicine providers can also help identify if you have any symptoms or conditions that require in-person care.

Red Flags: When to Seek In-Person Emergency Care

If you experience any of the following after taking emergency contraception, go to an emergency room or clinic immediately:

These symptoms may indicate serious complications that need urgent evaluation.

What Telemedicine Cannot Do

Telemedicine cannot perform physical exams, ultrasounds, or lab tests needed to rule out pregnancy or other medical conditions. It also cannot provide emergency contraception if you are already pregnant or if you have certain medical conditions that require in-person assessment. If you have ongoing severe symptoms or suspect pregnancy despite using Plan B, you should seek in-person care.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your virtual appointment, have the following ready:

This information helps your provider give the best advice quickly.

Aftercare and Follow-Up

After taking emergency contraception, you may experience mild side effects like nausea, fatigue, or spotting. If your next period is more than a week late, consider getting a pregnancy test. If you have any new or worsening symptoms, contact a healthcare provider. Remember, emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections or replace regular birth control methods.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the date and time of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.
• List any current medications or supplements you take.
• Know your last menstrual period dates.
• Prepare to describe any symptoms you are experiencing.
• Have a quiet, private space with good internet or phone connection for your tele-visit.

After your tele-visit

• Take the emergency contraception pill as instructed by your provider or the medication guide.
• Monitor for common side effects like nausea or spotting.
• Watch for any red flag symptoms that require immediate care.
• If your period is more than a week late, consider taking a pregnancy test.
• Follow up with a healthcare provider if you have concerns or ongoing symptoms.

FAQs

How soon should I take emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception works best when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, ideally within 72 hours. Some types may work up to 120 hours after, but effectiveness decreases with time.

Can emergency contraception cause side effects?

Yes, common side effects include nausea, fatigue, headache, dizziness, and spotting or changes in your next period. These usually resolve on their own within a few days.

Does emergency contraception protect against sexually transmitted infections?

No, emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Using condoms is the best way to reduce STI risk.

Can I use emergency contraception if I am already pregnant?

Emergency contraception will not terminate an existing pregnancy. If you think you might be pregnant, talk to a healthcare provider for appropriate care.

Is emergency contraception safe for everyone?

Most people can safely use emergency contraception, but if you have certain medical conditions or are taking specific medications, consult a healthcare provider to ensure it is safe for you.

Sources

1. Emergency Contraception — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Emergency Contraception: What You Need to Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Emergency Contraception — Mayo Clinic.
4. Emergency Contraception — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you experience any urgent or severe symptoms, or if you have concerns about your health, please seek immediate in-person evaluation by a healthcare professional.