Key Points

• Get a better understanding of how Plan B works with your cycle.
• Discover what may be causing female infertility.
• Reach out to a surrogacy agency to learn more about your options.

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Sometimes you get caught up in a moment or forget to take a pill before you realize you should’ve used some sort of contraception. In this instance, many women will use an emergency contraceptive, also known as the commonly known brand, Plan B.

Some women may not have a clear understanding of how the pill works and how it affects fertility. A common question women ask is “does Plan B cause infertility?” We answer that question to help you navigate infertility and what can help you build your family.

How Does Plan B Work?

Plan B is an emergency contraceptive that works by preventing ovulation from occurring. It is meant to be taken within 72 hours after sex, and the earlier it is taken the better to prevent pregnancy. The pill has 95% effectiveness in stopping pregnancy, especially if you take it within the first 24 hours.

Taking Plan B will only prevent ovulation in the cycle you are on. It will not stop you from ovulating as you normally would. From there, your cycle will work as normal.

Side Effects of Plan B

• There are several side effects from Plan B that you should take into consideration when taking the pill. These usually subside in about 24 hours after taking the pill and do not have any long-term effects. The side effects include:
• Abdominal pain
• Breast pain
• Fatigue
• Feeling dizzy
• Headache
• Nausea

Understanding Infertility in Women

The fear of infertility can add even more stress to the process of trying to conceive a child. While previous use of Plan B does not affect your fertility, it’s important to know what other issues could indicate infertility. Female infertility could be caused by:

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) – This condition causes a hormone imbalance which can affect ovulation.
• Damage to fallopian tubes – Damaged or blocked fallopian tubes stop sperm from getting to the egg or block the passage of the fertilized egg to the uterus. The damage or blockage is usually due to pelvic inflammatory disease due to chlamydia, gonorrhea or other STIs. It can also be due to previous surgery in the abdomen or pelvis.
• Endometriosis – This condition occurs when tissue that is supposed to grow in the uterus grows and implants in other places. Often surgery is needed for removal which can cause scarring or blockage of fallopian tubes. Endometriosis can also disrupt the implantation of the fertilized egg.
• Uterine or cervical causes – These can interfere with egg implantation or even increase the risk of miscarriage. This includes fibroids, cervical stenosis and cervical mucus issues.

Learn More about Your Options

For anyone facing issues conceiving, it’s important to reach out to your doctor. The first step is to diagnose the issue, whether it is female or male infertility, and then begin to treat the situation how you see fit. We know the treatment process isn’t for everyone. Between the physical and emotional toll associated with trying to treat infertility and conceiving, sometimes the medical treatment plans aren’t for everyone. Working with our partners at American Surrogacy offers you the best experience through:

• Wait times: The most important thing we want to market and convey is that our families don’t have to wait any longer to become parents. The single most significant advantage is our low wait times. Couples finally have the chance to become parents.
• Quality Surrogates: Our families will connect with highly qualified surrogates, which adds to the low wait times and gives them the chance to develop a lasting relationship with the right surrogate. Our surrogates go through a full screening process before they are matched with a family, increasing the likelihood of the medical clinic accepting them.

If you’ve been wondering about surrogacy, reach out to a surrogacy professional. Whether you want to start today or just want to have the option in the future, a surrogacy professional can help. Contact a surrogacy agency to learn more today.