When it comes to birth control, options today are better and more effective than ever. Still, unexpected situations happen — a condom breaks, you miss a birth control appointment, or you’re worried your IUD might not be enough in a specific moment. That’s when people start to wonder:
Can you take Plan B with an IUD?
The short answer is: Yes, you can take Plan B even if you already have an IUD.
It’s safe and sometimes helpful depending on the situation. But it’s rarely needed.
In this Hartford-focused guide, we’ll explain exactly when Plan B makes sense with an IUD, when it doesn’t, and what to do if you’re unsure about your birth control protection.
Written by Meghan Killilea Galli, APRN, FNP-BC, this guide will help you make informed, confident decisions about your reproductive health.
Plan B and an IUD — Do You Need Both?
If you already have an IUD — whether it’s a copper IUD or Mirena hormonal IUD — you are already protected from pregnancy extremely well.
Effectiveness Levels:
| Birth Control Method | Typical Use Effectiveness |
|---|---|
| Plan B (Levonorgestrel) | ~87% |
| IUD (Hormonal or Copper) | 99%+ |
Your IUD is working full-time. So in most cases, Plan B is unnecessary.
When Might Someone Take Plan B With an IUD?
People usually think about Plan B if:
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They had unprotected sex and forgot they have an IUD is already working 24/7
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They feel pelvic pain and worry the IUD moved
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They are unsure if their IUD was recently placed correctly
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They can’t feel IUD strings and panic
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They’re in the first week after getting an IUD inserted
In these rare situations, taking Plan B is safe, though not usually required.
Mirena IUD and Plan B Together
If you have a Mirena IUD, Skyla, Kyleena, or Liletta:
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You do not usually need Plan B
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These hormonal IUDs are already among the best pregnancy protection options
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Taking Plan B won’t harm your IUD or reproductive system
Important:
Plan B will not make the Mirena IUD more effective — it’s already working at peak strength.
Copper IUD and Plan B
If you have a copper IUD, you are already using the most effective emergency contraception available. It prevents pregnancy even if inserted after unprotected sex.
So if you already have one in place:
You do not need Plan B.
However, if your IUD just got inserted and you’re still unsure, contact your provider. In Hartford, you can reach out to a women’s health clinic for confirmation.
Situations Where Plan B Might Be Considered With an IUD
You may choose to take Plan B if:
| Scenario | Should You Consider Plan B? |
|---|---|
| IUD inserted less than 7 days ago | ✅ Possibly — talk to a provider |
| You think the IUD moved or fell out | ✅ |
| You can’t feel the strings & had sex | ✅ |
| Severe cramping after IUD & unprotected sex | ✅ |
| IUD removed recently & had unprotected sex | ✅ |
If your IUD has been in place and confirmed, you don’t need Plan B.
Signs Your IUD May Not Be Positioned Correctly
Consult your provider if you notice:
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Sharp pelvic pain
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Strings feel much longer or shorter than usual
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You can’t feel your IUD strings at all
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New, intense cramping
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Unusual bleeding or discharge
If you’re in Hartford and experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait — call a women’s health clinic near you to get checked.
How Plan B Works With IUDs
Plan B works by delaying ovulation.
IUDs work differently, depending on the type:
| IUD Type | How It Prevents Pregnancy |
|---|---|
| Hormonal (Mirena, Skyla, etc.) | Thickens cervical mucus + reduces ovulation |
| Copper IUD | Prevents sperm from fertilizing egg |
Because they use different methods, Plan B does not interfere with your IUD.
Will Plan B Affect Your Period With an IUD?
Birth control + emergency contraception can temporarily change your cycle. You may notice:
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Light spotting
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Early period
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Delayed period
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Cramping
This is normal — especially for Mirena users, who may already have lighter periods or no period at all.
If your period is late and you’re worried, take a pregnancy test. IUD pregnancies are extremely rare but medically urgent to check.
Can You Get Pregnant With an IUD?
It’s unlikely — but not impossible. Rarely, pregnancies can happen if:
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IUD moved out of place
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IUD expelled without noticing
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IUD expired
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It was placed incorrectly
If you suspect pregnancy with an IUD, seek medical care immediately — including in Hartford. Ectopic pregnancies do require urgent evaluation.
When to Call a Hartford Women’s Health Provider
Call a local OB-GYN if you:
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Feel unusual or severe pelvic pain
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Can’t feel your IUD strings
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Had unprotected sex within the first week after IUD insertion
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Have signs of pregnancy (nausea, breast pain, missed period)
🌿 Final Answer: Can You Take Plan B With an IUD?
Yes, you can — but most of the time you don’t need to.
Your IUD already provides powerful pregnancy protection. Plan B does not harm your IUD, but it usually adds no extra benefit.
Bottom Line:
Plan B + IUD = Safe, but nearly always unnecessary.
📍 Women’s Health in Hartford: Trusted Care
If you’re worried about pregnancy or IUD placement, Hartford providers can help confirm positioning and answer questions. Local options include:
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Hartford HealthCare OB-GYN
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UConn Health Women’s Center
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Planned Parenthood of Southern New England
Always trust your body — if something doesn’t feel right, schedule a visit.
Disclaimer: This is informational content, not a substitute for professional medical advice.
About the Author
Meghan Killilea Galli, APRN, FNP-BC
Family Nurse Practitioner
Women’s & Reproductive Health Specialist
Meghan Killilea Galli, APRN, FNP-BC, is a Connecticut-based board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with over 5 years of experience in urology, women’s pelvic health, and primary care. She practices with Hartford HealthCare and Griffin Faculty Practice Plan and founded Health Gardeners to share reliable, evidence-based health information.
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