Emergency Contraception After Sexual Assault for Boston University Students

If you have experienced sexual assault, you have the right to access emergency contraception (EC), which can prevent an unintended pregnancy. It’s important to know that emergency contraception is available to you quickly, and there are multiple ways to get it in Boston. This page provides information on your options for emergency contraception and how to access it as a Boston University (BU) student.

What is Emergency Contraception (EC)?

Emergency contraception is a type of birth control that can help prevent pregnancy if you’ve had unprotected sex, if your birth control failed (e.g., condom breaking), or if you’ve been sexually assaulted. It is most effective if taken within 3 days (72 hours) but can  be effective up to 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sexual contact. EC is not an abortion pill and will not be effective if a pregnancy has already occurred.

There are two common types of emergency contraception:

1. Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs):
   1. Plan B One-Step and other Levonorgestrel-based pills are available over the counter.
   2. These pills are most effective when taken within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex but may still work up to 5 days after the assault.
   3. These pills have a weight limit and work best for folks under 170 pounds. 
2. Prescription Emergency Contraceptive Pills (Ella):
   1. Ella is another type of EC that can be prescribed by a healthcare provider. It is most effective when taken within 5 days of unprotected sex, like Levonorgestrel, but it can work slightly better for people above 170 pounds.
3. Intrauterine Device (IUD):
   1. Paragard, Mirena, and Liletta IUDs are the most effective when used as emergency contraception. They work up to 5 days after unprotected sex.

Why Should You Use Emergency Contraception?

If you’ve been sexually assaulted, emergency contraception can help prevent pregnancy after an assault, giving you a choice in your reproductive health. EC is safe and effective and does not require long-term commitment.

• Prevent pregnancy: EC is your option to help prevent pregnancy if a condom broke, if no contraception was used, or if you are worried about contraceptive failure.
• Fast acting: The sooner you take EC after the assault, the more effective it will be.
• Over-the-counter options: Some EC pills, like Plan B, are available without a prescription at pharmacies.

How Soon Should You Take Emergency Contraception?

• ASAP: The sooner you take emergency contraception, the more effective it will be. Ideally, EC should be taken within 72 hours (3 days) after the assault.
• Up to 5 days: Emergency contraception can still be effective up to 5 days after unprotected sex or sexual assault.
• If more than 5 days have passed, you may want to explore other options with a healthcare provider.

Where Can I Get Emergency Contraception in Boston?

As a Boston University student, you have several options to get emergency contraception. These are quick, confidential, and available to you regardless of insurance status.

1. Boston University Health Services

You can access emergency contraception directly through BU Health Services, which is available to all enrolled students.

Location:
Boston University Student Health Services
881 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215

Phone: (617) 353-3575
You can make an appointment or walk in for assistance with getting emergency contraception.

Confidential and supportive care: You will be provided with counseling and options tailored to your situation, and the medication will be provided confidentially.

2. Pharmacies in Boston

You can also purchase emergency contraception without a prescription at most pharmacies in Boston, including:

• CVS

• Walgreens

• Rite Aid

EC is available over-the-counter for anyone of any age, no prescription required. Plan B One-Step and other Levonorgestrel-based brands are typically priced between $35-$50.

3. Planned Parenthood of Greater Boston

Planned Parenthood offers emergency contraception as well as other services, including confidential counseling and support.

Location:
Planned Parenthood Boston Health Center
1055 Commonwealth Ave, Boston, MA 02215

Phone: (800) 230-PLAN (7526)

They provide EC and reproductive health care services and are a confidential resource for students.

Can Emergency Contraception Be Used if I’m Not Sure?

Yes. Emergency contraception is safe to take even if you’re not sure whether pregnancy occurred. It’s your choice whether you want to use it, but if you’ve had unprotected sex or experienced sexual assault, this is a safe and effective way to prevent a possible pregnancy.

What Happens After You Take Emergency Contraception?

• Side effects: Most people experience no side effects, but some may have mild symptoms like nausea, headache, or changes in their menstrual cycle.
• Follow-up care: It’s a good idea to follow up with a healthcare provider for a pregnancy test if your period is delayed by more than a week. You may also want to discuss STI testing if you haven’t already done so.

Support and Resources for BU Students

If you need emotional support or help deciding whether to use emergency contraception, there are confidential resources available to you:

1. Boston University’s Survivor Advocacy, Response and Prevention (SARP) Support Services

• Phone: (617) 353-7277
• 24/7 support: BU offers confidential counseling and resources for students who have experienced sexual assault, including assistance with getting emergency contraception.

2. Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC)

• Phone: (617) 492-7273 or 1-800-841-8371
  24-hour hotline: BARCC provides confidential support, legal advocacy, and referrals to medical services.

3. RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)

• Phone: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
  24/7 confidential hotline: RAINN offers national support for survivors of sexual assault, including help in accessing local resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You Have the Right to Make Your Own Choices

Remember, emergency contraception is just one of many options available to you after a sexual assault. It’s important that you have access to confidential, non-judgmental care and emotional support. You are not alone—whether you choose to use emergency contraception or not, there are resources at Boston University and in Boston that are here to support you.

If you need help or have questions, don’t hesitate to contact one of the resources listed above.