What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Emergency Contraception (Plan B)

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for Emergency Contraception (EC), often called Plan B, you will usually receive clear instructions on how to take the medication safely. Emergency Contraception helps prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure and works best when taken as soon as possible, typically within 72 hours. The telemedicine provider may discuss possible side effects, what to expect next, and when to seek further care. You might be advised to take a pregnancy test if your next period is late or unusual. It is important to follow the aftercare steps and watch for any warning signs. Telemedicine can provide quick access to EC and advice, but it cannot replace in-person exams if you have serious symptoms or need other treatments. Always ask questions during your visit and keep track of your health afterward.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Heavy vaginal bleeding soaking more than two pads per hour for two or more hours — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe abdominal or pelvic pain that does not improve — get medical help promptly.
• Signs of allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face or throat, difficulty breathing — call emergency services right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Providing information about Emergency Contraception and how to take it safely.
• Assessing eligibility for Plan B based on medical history and timing.
• Answering questions about side effects and what to expect after taking EC.
• Guiding when to take a pregnancy test and follow-up steps.
• Referring to in-person care if serious symptoms or complications arise.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing or treating severe bleeding or abdominal pain requiring immediate physical examination.
• Performing pregnancy tests or ultrasounds.
• Managing allergic reactions or emergencies.
• Providing ongoing contraceptive care that requires physical exams or procedures.

What to Expect Right After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine appointment, you will often receive a prescription or instructions to get Emergency Contraception (Plan B). The provider will explain how and when to take it, usually as soon as possible within 72 hours after unprotected sex. You may also get advice on managing common side effects like nausea or spotting. The provider might suggest ways to track your next period and when to take a pregnancy test if your period is late by more than a week.

How Emergency Contraception Works

Emergency Contraception pills work mainly by delaying ovulation — the release of an egg — so sperm cannot fertilize it. They do not end an existing pregnancy. Plan B is most effective when taken quickly after unprotected sex. It is not meant to be used as a regular birth control method but as a backup option in emergencies.

Common Side Effects and What They Mean

You may experience mild side effects such as nausea, fatigue, headache, dizziness, breast tenderness, or irregular bleeding. These usually go away within a few days. If side effects are severe or last longer than expected, contact a healthcare provider. Keep in mind that your next period might come earlier or later than usual.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you experience heavy bleeding (soaking more than two pads per hour for several hours), severe abdominal pain, signs of allergic reaction (such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing), or if you suspect you are pregnant despite taking EC, seek emergency medical care immediately. These are red flags that need prompt evaluation.

Follow-Up After Taking Emergency Contraception

Monitor your menstrual cycle and any symptoms after taking Plan B. If your period is more than a week late, consider taking a pregnancy test. If you have questions or concerns, schedule a follow-up visit with a healthcare provider. Discuss ongoing birth control options to prevent future emergencies.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have your medical history ready, including any allergies and current medications.
• Know the time since unprotected sex occurred.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns about Emergency Contraception.
• Ensure a private and quiet space for the telemedicine visit.
• Have a reliable internet connection and a charged device for the appointment.

After your tele-visit

• Take Emergency Contraception as instructed, usually as soon as possible.
• Watch for common side effects like nausea or spotting.
• Track your menstrual cycle and note any changes.
• Take a pregnancy test if your period is more than a week late.
• Seek in-person care if you experience any red flag symptoms.
• Discuss ongoing birth control options with a healthcare provider.

FAQs

How soon should I take Emergency Contraception after unprotected sex?

Emergency Contraception works best when taken as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex. The sooner you take it, the more effective it is at preventing pregnancy.

Can Emergency Contraception cause pregnancy?

No, Emergency Contraception does not cause pregnancy. It helps prevent pregnancy by delaying ovulation. It will not affect an existing pregnancy or cause an abortion.

What if I vomit after taking Plan B?

If you vomit within two hours of taking Plan B, the medication may not have been absorbed properly. Contact your healthcare provider for advice; you may need to take another dose.

Can I use Emergency Contraception as regular birth control?

Emergency Contraception is meant for occasional use only, not as a regular birth control method. Talk to a healthcare provider about ongoing contraception options that suit you.

Will Emergency Contraception affect my next period?

Your next period may come earlier or later than usual after taking Emergency Contraception. If your period is more than a week late, take a pregnancy test and consult a healthcare provider.

Sources

1. Emergency Contraception — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Emergency Contraception — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Emergency Contraception Pills (Plan B One-Step and Others) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Emergency Contraception — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have serious symptoms or concerns, seek prompt medical attention from a healthcare professional.