Emergency Contraception

About emergency contraception (EC)

Emergency contraception (EC) is birth control used after unprotected sex (or after contraception failure during sex) to help prevent pregnancy.

EC stops a pregnancy before it happens, either by temporarily stopping ovulation (the release of an egg that can be fertilized by sperm), or by changing the environment of the uterus or cervix so that sperm and egg do not meet. (EC is different from abortion pills, which end a pregnancy that has already begun.)

EC must be taken within 3-5 days of unprotected sex to be effective – but the sooner EC is taken, the better it works to prevent pregnancy.

Which EC option is right for you?

It is important to carefully review the information below to make sure you’re choosing the best option for you. Some EC options may be less effective based on when you had unprotected sex and your BMI.

If prescription EC is the best option for you, please know that we prioritize same-day EC prescriptions whenever possible.

(1) Non-prescription EC pills 

Levonorgestrel & brand name versions (Plan B, Julie, Econtra, Option 2) 

• Appropriate for those who:
  • had unprotected sex within the last 3 days (most effective within 3 days; can be used within 120 hours)
  • have a body weight/mass (BMI) under 26 (calculate your BMI here)
  • If this does not describe you, see Prescription EC options below.
• Effectiveness: Up to 89% effective when taken within 3 days of unprotected sex
• Cost: $10-$45

Where to purchase

Note that ALL non-prescription EC is the same drug (Levonorgestrel 1.5 mg), sold under different brand names or as the generic version.

• Cornell Health vending machine (in lobby inside Ho Plaza entrance) – OPEN 24/7
  • Julie - available at no cost (while supply is available, as part of the company's donation program)
  • Levonorgestrel - $10
• Cornell Health Pharmacy [see pharmacy hours] 
  • Plan B - $45
  • Levonorgestrel - $10
  • Econtra - $20
• Mann Library vending machine (in lobby) – OPEN 24/7
  • Option 2 - $18
• Martha Van Rensselaer Hall vending machine (near Martha's Cafe) [see MVR HAll hours]
  • Option 2 - $18
• Robert Purcell Community Center vending machine (outside Bear Necessities) [see RPCC hours]
  • Option 2 - $18

(2) Prescription EC pill

Ella

• Appropriate for those who:
  • had unprotected sex within the last 5 days 
  • are of any body weight/mass (BMI)
  • had sex mid-cycle (are nearing ovulation)
• Effectiveness: Up to 98% effective when taken with 5 days of unprotected sex
• Cost: Will depend on your insurance (covered at no cost by Cornell’s Student Health Plan)

How to get a prescription for Ella

Ella typically can be prescribed the same day without an in-person appointment. (Please be aware that we are open Monday-Saturday during the academic year, and Monday-Friday during intersessions. See our current business hours.)

To get a prescription for Ella, call Cornell Health (607-255-5155) as soon as possible during business hours and ask for an “emergency contraception consultation.” 

(3) Prescription intrauterine device (IUD) 

Mirena or Paragard

• Appropriate for those who:
  • had unprotected sex within the last 5 days
  • are of any body weight/mass (BMI)
  • want the most effective EC available
  • want EC that will prevent pregnancy for years
• Effectiveness: About 99% effective when placed within 5 days of unprotected sex 
• Cost: Will depend on your insurance (covered at no cost by Cornell’s Student Health Plan)

How to get a prescription for an IUD

IUDs typically can be prescribed and ordered the same day, but a follow-up office visit is required for the placement. Follow-up appointments can usually be made available within 1-2 business days. (Please be aware that we are open Monday-Saturday during the academic year, and Monday-Friday during intersessions. See our current business hours.) 

To get a prescription for an IUD, call Cornell Health (607-255-5155) as soon as possible during business hours and ask for an “emergency contraception consultation.” 

How to learn more about EC

You can start with these fact sheets on our website:

• Emergency contraception: how to choose
• Now that you've purchased EC

If you have additional questions about which EC is right for you, you can call Cornell Health (24/7) to consult with a nurse or on-call provider: 607-255-5155.

How to get additional support

• If you are concerned that you may have been exposed to a sexually transmitted infection (STI), you can get tested for free at Cornell Health. Learn more on our STI (STD) Testing page. 
• If the need for EC is due to an unwanted or forced sexual encounter, support is available. Visit our Assault, Harassment, & Bias page and Cornell's SHARE website for options. 
• If your use of alcohol or other drugs (AOD) played a role in your need for EC, and/or you would like to explore your AOD use in a non-judgmental, supportive setting, you may benefit from our AOD support options.