Emergency contraception can be used to prevent pregnancy after having unprotected sex or after a birth control method fails. While there are many emergency contraception options available in Canada, uOttawa provides the Plan B emergency contraceptive pill.
Emergency contraception available to students
The University of Ottawa Student Union (UOSU) Feminist Resource Centre and the Student Wellness Sector have partnered to provide free emergency contraception to uOttawa students.
What’s emergency contraception?
Plan B
The Plan B emergency contraceptive pill works by temporarily delaying the release of an egg from the ovary (ovulation), so that there’s no egg to meet the sperm (fertilization). It must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex or birth control failure. The sooner Plan B is taken, the better it works.
Plan B is not an abortion pill – it will not end an existing pregnancy and does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases or blood-borne infections.
Where can you get Plan B?
Free Plan B is available at the Student Health and Wellness Centre (801 King Edward Avenue, N203 (second floor) Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m for uOttawa students.
After checking in at reception, you’ll meet privately with a nurse who will provide Plan B and, if you’re interested, explain how to use it, possible side effects, and contraception options. The consultation is optional; you’ll still receive Plan B even if you choose not to participate.