Myths and Facts about EC: Setting the record straight

Planned Parenthood of South Central New York, Inc. is a leading provider of emergency contraception (EC, pictured right) at all six locations across four counties: Binghamton, Oneonta, Norwich, Sidney, Walton and Lisle. The number of women receiving EC at PPSCNY has grown significantly over the last five years. “We’re very happy to make this method of contraception available to the women in our four-county area,” said Judy Feher, R.N., Director of Patient Services. “Yet many people are still unclear about what EC is and how it works.”

• Myth: EC is the “abortion pill.”

• Fact: EC is not an abortion; it prevents pregnancy. EC does not interrupt an existing pregnancy.

• Myth: EC is the “morning after pill.”

• Fact: EC is effective up to 5 days after unprotected intercourse, but it’s most effective when taken as soon as possible.

• Myth: EC is dangerous.

• Fact: EC is very safe, reliable and effective.  It uses the same hormones in birth control pills that prevent pregnancy.

• Myth: I’ll need an exam for EC.

• Fact: PPSCNY does not require patients requesting EC to get an exam. A nurse practitioner explains how to take EC and encourages the patient to make an appointment for follow up family planning.

• Myth: They’ll lecture me for needing EC.

• Fact: We make no judgments about our patients. Our nurses discuss more reliable non-emergency methods of birth control with all women seeking EC.

• Myth: I can’t afford EC.

• Fact: All of PPSCNY’s services are on a sliding fee scale. Some women who meet certain guidelines may receive EC for free. PPSCNY never turns away a patient for lack of ability to pay.

Go back to ppscny.org