Is It Safe to Take Emergency Contraception Daily?
Despite some misconceptions, there are no known long-term health risks or serious side effects associated with repeated, frequent use of levonorgestrel-based emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), like Plan B. However, this does not mean it is a suitable or recommended method for daily contraception. ECPs are designed for emergency use following unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, not as a replacement for a reliable and consistent birth control method. Daily or frequent use comes with significant drawbacks related to effectiveness, side effects, and cost.
The Major Drawback: Reduced Effectiveness
Emergency contraception is a failsafe, not a primary prevention method. Its effectiveness is much lower than regular birth control options, and relying on it daily dramatically increases your risk of unintended pregnancy over time. A 2019 review cited that individuals using ECPs regularly face a 20-35% chance of pregnancy within a year. Standard hormonal contraception methods, when used correctly, boast effectiveness rates of over 98%, with IUDs reaching over 99%. ECPs only work by delaying or preventing ovulation and offer no protection for subsequent acts of intercourse within the same cycle.
The Hidden Cost of Frequent Use
Financially, relying on ECPs is far more expensive than other options. A single dose of Plan B or its generic can cost anywhere from $25 to $60, and sometimes more. In contrast, monthly birth control pills, an IUD insertion, or other regular methods are often covered by insurance and are much more cost-effective over the long term. Frequent, repetitive purchases of ECPs would quickly exceed the cost of more effective and convenient contraception.
Increased and Disruptive Side Effects
While ECPs cause temporary and mild side effects for most, frequent use can exacerbate these issues. Regular intake of the high dose of hormones found in these pills can cause consistent and disruptive symptoms, including:
- Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting between periods
- Delayed or earlier-than-expected menstrual cycles
- Increased nausea and vomiting
- Headaches and dizziness
- Breast tenderness
- Abdominal pain and cramping
These side effects are often more frequent and pronounced than those associated with a daily birth control pill, which is designed for steady hormone levels.
Important Differences Between EC Medications
Not all ECPs are the same, and their protocols for repeated use differ. Understanding these differences is crucial.
Levonorgestrel-based Pills (e.g., Plan B)
These pills are available over-the-counter and can be taken more than once, even within the same menstrual cycle. However, if taken after a dose of ulipristal acetate (Ella), they may counteract its effect. Frequent use is medically safe but not recommended due to the reasons mentioned above.
Ulipristal Acetate (e.g., Ella)
This is a prescription-only ECP that should only be used once per menstrual cycle. Taking it more frequently is not recommended due to unknown effects and potential counteraction with other hormonal contraceptives. Individuals must wait five days after taking Ella before beginning or resuming any hormonal contraception.
Emergency vs. Regular Contraception: A Comparison
| Feature | Emergency Contraception (e.g., Plan B) | Regular Contraception (e.g., Daily Pill) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Single-incident use after unprotected sex or failure. | Continuous, routine prevention of pregnancy. |
| Effectiveness | Less effective, especially over time or when used frequently. | Highly effective with consistent and correct use. |
| Usage Frequency | Occasional, on an emergency basis only. | Daily, weekly, or long-term, depending on the method. |
| Side Effects | Often causes more severe, temporary side effects. | Milder, more predictable side effects, designed for consistency. |
| Cost | High per dose, expensive for repeated use. | Generally affordable and often covered by insurance. |
Conclusion: Choose a Consistent Method
Is it bad to take an emergency every day? The short answer is that while generally safe in terms of long-term health risks for most people, it is a highly impractical and ineffective strategy for birth control. ECPs offer a crucial safety net but are not designed for routine use. Relying on them daily carries a high risk of unintended pregnancy, significant financial burden, and frequent hormonal disruptions. For anyone with an active sex life seeking to prevent pregnancy, adopting a more reliable and consistent method of contraception is the most effective, economical, and convenient approach to protecting your reproductive health. If you find yourself in need of emergency contraception frequently, it is a clear sign to discuss more suitable long-term options with a healthcare provider or a local family planning clinic, such as Planned Parenthood.
