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Quirky Questions: Do birth control pills work like Plan B?

Dec 27, 2018
By Kyoko Peña-Robles
Birth control pills

Updated December 27, 2018.

Question: To prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, can I take several birth control pills at once instead of the morning-after pill?

Answer: With very effective emergency contraception (Plan B One-Step) so readily available, typical oral contraceptive pills aren’t the preferred option to prevent pregnancy within 48 hours of unprotected sex. But if you can’t get Plan B, it is possible to prevent pregnancy by taking multiple birth control pills at once, which–when taken at the correct dosage–approximates the 1mg of levonorgestrel recommended for emergency contraception. So be sure to contact your provider for specific instructions before you pop those pills. And be aware that if you’re currently using a pill pack that contains estradiol plus levonorgestrel, the additional hormone can consequently increase your risk of significant nausea.

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birth control quirky questions women's health pregnancy morning after pill plan b unprotected sex sexual health contraception
Kyoko Peña-Robles

Kyoko practices evidence-based medicine with an emphasis on empowering and encouraging her patients to take active roles in their health care. With expertise in women's health, including prenatal care, reproductive health, and menstrual disorders, she manages a broad range of health concerns. After receiving a master’s in public health from Boston University, Kyoko earned her medical degree from Temple University and completed her residency at University of Pennsylvania. She then went on to complete an obstetric fellowship at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center OB/GYN Residency in San Jose. Kyoko is board-certified in family medicine. Kyoko is a One Medical Group provider and sees patients in our San Francisco offices.

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