When navigating reproductive health options, it’s important to understand the differences between these two medications. Plan B, or the “morning after” pill, and Plan C, abortion pills, serve different purposes and work in fundamentally different ways. Journey Women’s Center provides education, as well as practical and emotional support, empowering women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
Key Differences: Purpose, Timing, and How They Work
The primary difference between Plan B and Plan C lies in their purpose and timing. Plan C is designed to terminate an existing pregnancy, while Plan B is intended to prevent pregnancy before it occurs. Plan C is found to be effective within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy and requires a specific two-step process.
In contrast, Plan B is a single-dose pill taken after unprotected sex and is most effective when used promptly. The abortion pill works by inducing a miscarriage, whereas Plan B works by preventing ovulation, fertilization, or implantation.
Plan B: What It Is and How It Works
Plan B, also known as the “morning-after pill,” is an emergency contraceptive intended to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It contains a high dose of levonorgestrel, a hormone commonly found in birth control pills.
Plan B works primarily by delaying ovulation, meaning it prevents the release of an egg from the ovary. If ovulation has already occurred, Plan B may also work by preventing fertilization or by preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. Plan B is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, recommended within 72 hours.
While Plan B has been found to be effective, it does not always prevent pregnancy. Plan B does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. If you have had unprotected sex, it is important to guard your health and get tested. Untreated, sexually transmitted infections can greatly impact your reproductive health and cause infertility in both men and women.
Plan C: What It Is and How It Works
Plan C, often referred to as the abortion pills or a medication abortion, involves a two-step process using two different medications: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the pregnancy to continue. Without this hormone, the lining of the uterus breaks down, and the pregnancy cannot proceed.
Misoprostol, taken 24-48 hours after mifepristone, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy. This method is used to terminate an existing pregnancy and is effective up to 10 weeks gestation.
Pre-abortion Screening Before Taking Plan C
If you have had a positive pregnancy test and are considering Plan C, it is important to get a pre-abortion screening. Journey Women’s Center provides free and confidential services, pregnancy testing and limited OB ultrasounds that confirm whether a pregnancy can progress. Contact us to schedule your free limited-OB ultrasound to confirm your pregnancy.
Miscarriage occurs in 25% of pregnancies and may require medical attention. Plan C does not eliminate an ectopic pregnancy a non-viable pregnancy due to implantation in the fallopian tube. This can be life-threatening and requires medical intervention.
Prior to 2020, Plan C pills were purchased through an abortion provider. Providers would perform an ultrasound in order to rule out an ectopic pregnancy. They would accurately assess the duration of the pregnancy, as the medication was not as effective after 10 weeks gestation. They were required to provide surgical intervention in case of an incomplete abortion or severe bleeding and have the ability to provide care through other qualified physicians, should any complications arise. Providers would test for anemia and Rh-status, which can affect future pregnancies.
Though Plan C is affordable and accessible, these safety measures are no longer in place for women having self-managed abortions at home.
Journey Women’s Center provides a safe space to think through options, along with education about what to expect, possible risks, when to seek medical attention, and after-effects. We also provide abortion recovery services to women who may be struggling following an abortion.
Plan C is not a 100% safe process. If you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding (soaking through more than two pads per hour for two consecutive hours), fever, or any other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
If you take the pill then regret your decision, there is a chance you could reverse your abortion.
Empowering Informed Decisions
Understanding the differences between Plan B and Plan C is essential for making informed decisions about reproductive health. While both medications play significant roles in managing reproductive outcomes, they serve distinct purposes and operate differently within the body. By being informed, women can better evaluate their options to make safe choices that align with their needs and circumstances.
Always seek professional medical advice to ensure the safe and appropriate use of any medication.
If you have further questions or need support, Journey Women’s Center is here to provide education and compassionate care.