Some Text

Thrive+

Does Plan B expire? Info about the morning after pill

Hey friend. Have you found yourself in a tough spot? If you’re pregnant and this wasn’t part of your plan, you’re in the right place. Maybe you’ve got some questions, like “does Plan B expire,” “how does emergency contraception work?” and “does this pill have risks?” It’s not only okay to ask these questions — it’s a way to empower yourself with information! 

You’re in a safe place at ThriVe, a center where women support women. 

Let’s sit down, grab some tea, and break everything down so you feel informed. You should feel confident about what you’re dealing with. And no matter what comes next, you have our support here. You’re totally capable. Smart. Worthy.

I want to know — does Plan B expire?

So, what is Plan B?

Plan B is often called the “morning-after pill.”1 Some people view it more like a backup plan if they’ve been sexually active, but it isn’t meant for routine use, and it’s not fool proof.1 It’s a form of emergency contraception that some people take if a birth control method fails (like if a condom breaks or you missed a pill). Issues with contraception are common, and many people who use birth control (be it hormonal or condoms) become pregnant.2 Here at ThriVe, our goal is to help you be informed with accurate info so you can make the best choices for your future.

How does Plan B work? It contains a hormone called levonorgestrel, which is meant to work by delaying ovulation (stopping your body from releasing an egg).2 But Plan B sometimes doesn’t work even if you use it correctly, and it doesn’t protect you from STIs either.1

Now, I know some people hear “Plan B” and think it’s the same thing as the abortion pill, but that’s not true. These are two totally different pills for two different situations. Plan B is supposed to prevent a pregnancy after unprotected sex. Morning-after pills work mainly by delaying or preventing the release of an egg from the ovaries, called ovulation.1. The abortion pill (like Mifepristone or Misoprostol) is used after a pregnancy has already started.

Whatever situation you are in, it’s important to get all the information you need before taking one of these medications. Both of these medications have risks and side effects, so make sure you talk with a doctor first. Your health is worth this small extra step.

If you’re ever unsure and want peace of mind, ThriVe offers no-cost, lab-quality pregnancy tests — and you can get answers without the stress. Even if you’ve already taken a test, you’re welcome to come take one here. We’ll help you get all the info you need to make whatever step is right for you.

Okay, but… does Plan B expire?

Good question. Yes, Plan B does expire. Like most medications, it has a shelf life. For Plan B, that expiration is 4 years from the manufacturing date.3 Expired medications can lose some of their effectiveness, and there’s no guarantee that a medication is safe after it’s the expiration date.4 And with any new medication, you should always consult your doctor. Again, you deserve to keep your glow. Take care of your health.

How does Plan B actually work?

Plan B works by preventing an egg from fully developing. It also might prevent a woman’s egg from attaching to the uterus wall.5 It is designed to be taken within 72 hours (3 days) of ovulation.2 The longer you wait, the less effective it becomes. And like we mentioned earlier, it might not prevent a pregnancy even if you use it correctly.1 And just a little heads-up: if you are overweight, Plan B might not work as effectively for you.1 

The only 100% effective way to prevent pregnancy is to delay sex.2  But if you’ve been sexually active and think you might be pregnant, you always have options.. Whatever your situation, ThriVe is here to support you with the information you need. Give us a call if you’re unsure and need someone to talk to. We’ll get you the info you need to decide what comes next.

Are there side effects of taking Plan B?

Well, we answered, “Does Plan B expire?” Always check on that expiration date. But does it have any side effects? Here are some of the most common ones:

Nausea and vomitingTender breasts
Fatigue and headachesPain or cramps in the stomach area1
Your next period might be different. It could come later than expected, it might be heavier than usual, or you might have bleeding in between periods.1

Some of these symptoms can overlap with early pregnancy signs. If you think you might be pregnant, ThriVe is always here with no-cost services if you need peace of mind about pregnancy or anything else. We’re here to empower you with information.

Are there risks to taking Plan B?

Plan B has limitations or risks. You deserve to know the facts before making your choice. Here are a few things you should know:

It’s not meant to be taken regularly. It’s not intended as a regular kind of birth control.2

You can still get pregnant after taking Plan B. It’s not 100% effective. And even if you use it correctly, it might not work.1

It doesn’t protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).1 If you’re worried about STIs, it’s smart to get tested. ThriVe offers no-cost STI screenings and can help you get the treatment you need. Even if you don’t have any symptoms, it’s still possible for you to have an STD.6 

It can mess with your menstrual cycle. After taking Plan B, you might notice changes in your next period—it could be up to a week late, or different in flow.1 These changes can throw you off, especially if you track your cycle. If you don’t get your period within 3 weeks of taking Plan B, it’s a good idea to take a pregnancy test.1 Schedule your appointment at ThriVe for a no-cost, lab-quality test.

Is Plan B the same as the abortion pill?

Like we mentioned earlier, Plan B is not the same as the abortion pill. The abortion pill (medications like Mifepristone and Misoprostol) is used to end a pregnancy that has already started.1 It works by stopping the pregnancy from continuing, while Plan B works by delaying ovulation.2 If you’re already pregnant, Plan B won’t be effective.1 If you’re unsure whether you’re pregnant, it’s always a good idea to take a pregnancy test to confirm. You’re welcome to come see us for a no-cost test and ultrasound. An appointment can give you the information you need if you’re unsure what steps might come next.

Holistic feminism

I totally understand and applaud you for how you’re looking more into Plan B. It shows that you care about your health. Good on you! If worrying about pregnancy is causing you stress, why not ditch that? The only 100% sure way to avoid pregnancy is to delay having sex. I know, might sound like an old-school thing to say. But if you’re looking for more confidence in your health and future, postponing sex is an empowering move. 

Emergency contraception like Plan B is not something you want to depend on regularly. Your body’s cycle is a beautiful and natural thing. The simplest way to take care of it is to delay sex until you’re in a committed relationship, where things like STDs and pregnancy aren’t something you have to feel stressed about. Whatever you decide, we are there for you.

And if you ever find yourself in a spot where you’re wondering whether you’re pregnant or not, take a breath. ThriVe has your back with no-cost, lab-quality pregnancy tests, so you don’t have to guess or worry. It’s confidential, judgment-free, and there to give you the answers you need. But our women’s center does more than pregnancy testing. Our women’s advocates are here to give you emotional support. We want you to feel empowered and confident.

Remember, you’ve got options, and you’re never alone in figuring this stuff out. Whether it’s questions about Plan B, pregnancy, or just needing to talk things through, there are resources out there (like ThriVe’s blog section) ready to help. Make your appointment today if you’re looking for some guidance.

Healthy • Safe • Strong

Call Now to speak to a nurse or pre-abortion advocate
Our Telehealth Services and St. Louis Medical Services are closed temporarily.
Please call 1-800-712-4357 for another center near you.
 
All St. Louis Parent University & Resources and Risk Avoidance classes are all active!
Please call 1-314-783-0479 for assistance.