Emergency Contraception 101:
What Works, What’s a Myth, and Why No One Should Be Gatekeeping This
Ever felt like your birth control failed you and sent you into a panic spiral? You’re not alone, and more importantly, you’re not powerless. For Gen Z women and femmes, navigating reproductive rights and self-advocacy isn’t a choice; it’s survival. We’re here to cut through the chaos and arm you with the knowledge to reclaim control over your body and your choices. By the end of this read, you'll have debunked myths, embraced truths, and gained the power to make informed decisions. This is about collective empowerment—because knowing is half the battle, and sharing is the other half.
What Works: The Real Deal on Emergency Contraception
The Basics: What Exactly is EC?
Let’s set the record straight: Emergency contraception (EC) is your backup plan, not your go-to. Think of it as the seatbelt in your sexual health ride. There are three main types: Plan B, ella, and the copper IUD (Paragard). Each has its own effectiveness rate and usage window. Plan B, for example, is up to 89% effective when taken within 72 hours. ella gives you up to five days. The copper IUD is the most effective option if inserted within five days—and it doubles as long-term birth control after.
The Science Behind the Miracle
How does this little miracle work? Simple: emergency contraception stops or delays ovulation—the release of an egg from your ovary. No egg, no chance of fertilization. That’s it. Most EC pills work by interfering with the surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) that triggers ovulation. If ovulation’s already happened, it likely won’t work.
What EC doesn’t do:
It doesn’t disrupt implantation.
It doesn’t harm a fertilized egg.
Meaning it doesn’t cause an abortion.
And doesn’t end a pregnancy. (It prevents one from starting.)
That’s it. That’s the science.
Busting Birth Control Urban Legends
Myth 1: "Plan B is the Abortion Pill"
Truth Bomb: Plan B prevents pregnancy; it doesn’t end one. Let’s stop the misinformation train right here. Both ACOG and the CDC confirm: Plan B does not terminate a pregnancy—unlike the abortion pill (mifepristone) which ends an established pregnancy
Myth 2: "EC is a Magic Bullet"
Reality Check: EC is effective but not infallible. Understand its limits to truly harness its power. Plan B is about 75–89% effective when taken within 72 hours—highest (up to 97%) if taken within 24 hours. But timing and body weight matter. It’s significantly less effective if you weigh over ~165 lbs, and double-failure risk begins around BMI 30+. So yes—it can save you, but it’s not foolproof.
Myth 3: "Only 'Irresponsible' People Use EC"
Wrong. A 2013 survey found that 79% of women say using EC is a responsible way to prevent an unintended pregnancy—even if nearly a third felt judged while getting it. [Source] Additionally, Women using EC are not reckless—they’re informed. They’re choosing healthcare. That’s power.
The Future of Emergency Contraception
Progress & Challenges
Here’s the deal: New EC options are on the horizon, but don’t break out the confetti yet. Current barriers like cost, access, and stigma are still very much alive. Thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic we did see an increase in online offerings for EC and birth control mailed directly to you as well as a jump in usage of these services. [Source]
Reminder: Nearly half of all pregnancies in the U.S. are unintended—highlighting the dire need for accessible EC. [Source]
Empowerment Through Education
Real talk: Comprehensive sex education is more than a wish; it’s a demand. Community initiatives and resources are pushing for change, and you should be, too.
What We Were Taught vs. What’s True
What we were taught:
Emergency contraception is taboo. A last resort for the irresponsible. Something to feel ashamed of.
What’s actually true:
Emergency contraception is healthcare. A decision. A backup. A lifeline. A choice and a right for the informed and prepared.
Start here
Buy or Locate: Emergency contraception ahead of time to avoid panic when you might need it.
Save Info: A screenshot of the EC types, dosage windows, and effectiveness rates on your phone.
Know Your Rights: Ask your pharmacy what EC options they stock.
Spread the Word: Share a fact about EC on your story (e.g., "Plan B is less effective for people over 165 lbs—did you know?").
This isn’t just about information—it’s about ignition. Let’s turn knowledge into action, and action into change. Let’s own our bodies, our stories, and our futures. Ready to rage with love? Let’s go.
