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Media Credit: Diane Arellano Health Services offers Plan B, an emergency contraceptive, at a discounted price for enrolled students.

Student Health Services offers a variety of assistance for those who are sexually active, including the emergency contraceptive Plan B pill.   

The Plan B pill, also referred to as "the morning after" pill, is offered to students at a discounted price of $10.

This over-the-counter drug is one of three emergency contraceptives, but the most preferred according to Coordinator of Student Health Services Jo Buczko, because it is a progestin-only pill.

"A lot of women feel nausea and vomit when taking pills with high doses of estrogen," said Buczko. "It is very rare that a woman will vomit when taking progestin pills, so it is the more popular choice."

Plan B provides two pills, which should be taken right after intercourse, or within five days, according to an Emergency Contraception pamphlet available at Health Services.

However, its effectiveness decreases the longer one waits.

Buczko emphasized that this is not a primary method of birth control, but is strictly for emergencies.

"This is a high dose of hormones. You shouldn't be a frequent flyer on this one," Buczko said.

She added the three main reasons for taking Plan B should only be after the original birth control method didn't work, such as the condom broke; sexual assault; and unprotected sex.

The pill will delay ovulation and alter the reproductive lining, so it is crucial that women use protection if engaging in intercourse after taking the pill up to their next menstrual period, according to Buczko.

Students find it beneficial to have this offered on campus.

Eighteen-year-old film major Megan Carrillo was unaware that Plan B was available.

"I think the school providing its students with the option to purchase this pill is good and convenient," Carrillo said. "If you're going to be sexually active and are aware of the possibilities, then having this pill so close should be comforting."

Twenty-one-year old pre-nursing major Kristine Martin was aware that Plan B was offered and also believed it would serve the students in a positive way.

"I think that's great and they make it a lot cheaper than buying it over the counter. It's like $45 so a lot of people don't buy it and end up getting pregnant," Martin said.

"Ten dollars is a more reasonable price and more people will be inclined to use it."

According to Buczko, the pill has been available at Health Services for roughly five years.

Those who wish to receive Plan B need to schedule an appointment with Health Services. 

Contraception is also available for enrolled students.

Planned Parenthood will be in the Health Services office from noon to 4 p.m. today to assist students in choosing the best method for them.

For additional information on Plan B or other treatments available to students, visit the Student Health Center in U-104.

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