Is repeated use of Plan B harmful to women?
Given its potential to prevent unintended pregnancy and lack of serious medical risks, Plan B can be provided as frequently as needed. However, Plan B is not recommended for routine use as a contraceptive among sexually active women. Clients should be advised that the failure rate of Plan B is calculated for a single use. If Plan B is used on more than one occasion, the cumulative failure rate will be higher. How is Plan B provided? Plan B can be provided through advance prescription, prescription by telephone, walk-in prescription, or an office visit. Neither a pelvic examination nor a pregnancy test is required before treatment. In planning for emergency contraceptive services, it is important to keep in mind that the sooner Plan B is taken after unprotected intercourse, the more effective it is.6 Barriers to immediate access should be minimized.
