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Plan B, Abortion Pills, & Pregnancy on Campus

College life is full of surprises and sometimes those surprises include questions about pregnancy, emergency contraception, or abortion pills. Between social media, roommates, and quick trips to the campus pharmacy, it can be hard to separate fact from rumor. Our clinic is here to provide honest, medically accurate information and compassionate support so you can make informed choices without judgment.

Plan B: What You Need to Know

Plan B, often called the “morning-after pill,” is not the abortion pill, though many students confuse the two. It contains a high dose of levonorgestrel, a synthetic hormone that primarily works by delaying ovulation. Some studies suggest it may also affect the uterine lining, which could prevent a fertilized egg from implanting.

It’s important to know that Plan B is not intended for regular use. Repeated use reduces its effectiveness and along with other side effects, it can:

  • Disrupt your menstrual cycle

  • Cause severe cramping

  • Cause irregular bleeding

 

Timing and weight can also affect how well it works, and it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

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Our center provides confidential guidance and free pregnancy testing to help students understand how Plan B works and explore medically informed next steps. We do not provide emergency contraceptives or abortion pills. 

Abortion Pills: Facts and Risks

Abortion pills, sometimes called medication abortion, are completely different from Plan B. They are designed to end an established pregnancy and come with medical risks and legal considerations.

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Students often hear about abortion pills online or from peers, but social media rarely gives the full picture. Side effects can include heavy bleeding, nausea, or incomplete abortion that requires medical follow-up. Because of these risks, it’s crucial to talk with a qualified medical professional before taking any abortion medication.

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At our center, we provide accurate, confidential information about pregnancy options, including abortion, so students can make decisions with clarity and support.

Pregnancy on Campus: You’re Not Alone

An unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming—especially in the middle of classes, exams, and campus life. But you don’t have to navigate it on your own. Our center offers a safe, judgment-free space to explore your options, get medical care, and receive emotional support.

We provide:

  • Free pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds

  • Options consultations on parenting, adoption, and abortion

  • Referrals for prenatal or ongoing medical care

  • STI testing and treatment referrals

  • Support from trained peer counselors and nurses

  • Resources, classes, and aid during and after pregnancy

  • Connections at your school or for high school or college students
     

Our goal is to help you make informed, empowered decisions and ensure you feel supported throughout your journey—whether you’re exploring Plan B, considering your options, or seeking ongoing care. We’re here for you every step of the way, offering free, confidential care tailored to your needs as a college student.

Sources:

 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Emergency contraception: U.S. selected practice recommendations for contraceptive use. 

 

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Plan B One-Step (levonorgestrel) information. 

 

On limitations regarding body weight/BMI, Healthline Editorial Team. (2023). Plan B weight limit: Effectiveness and considerations. Healthline. 

 

https://athomeabortionfacts.com/

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Proudly serving the DMV

Hours
Monday 10:00 - 6:00
Tuesday 10:00 - 6:00
Wednesday 10:00 - 6:00
Thursday 10:00 - 6:00
Friday 9:00 - 1:00
Address
5101-D Backlick Rd
Annandale, VA 22003

Call: 703-354-7272
Text: 571-335-7993
during office hours only

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Metro Women's Care does not perform or refer for abortions.
Metro Women's Care is a free women’s center that provides services, education, and support to our community. Confidential services are offered in accordance with Virginia law. Our center does not perform nor refer for abortion services or profit from your reproductive health decisions. The education on this website is intended for general education purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional counseling, medical, or prenatal care. We provide ultrasounds to estimate how far along you are and assess whether the pregnancy appears to be developing in the uterus. An ultrasound alone cannot rule out an ectopic pregnancy. Contact us to learn more.

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