What Is A "B Kit"?

A "B Kit" is just one option MSU students have to take control of their reproductive health. This kit includes an emergency contraception method. 

Any MSU student can get a B Kit, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or age! No ID or other information will be asked for. The only requirement is that you are in need of Plan B.

B Kits Include:

  • 1 Dose of Plan B One-Step

  • 1 Fact Sheet

  • 2-3 Other Goodies like Tea or Chocolate!

B Kit Pick-Up 

Student Wellness Center

Student Wellness Office, 950 W. Grant St., Suite 1204

Open: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday - Friday

(406) 994-4380

*Just ask an employee "Can I please get a B Kit?" and whoever is working will help you get one, no questions asked!

 

What Is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception is a safe way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex.

Unprotected sex includes:

  • Vaginal sex without a condom or other birth control method
  • The condom broke or slipped off during sex
  • Partner didn't pull out in time
  • Non-consensual vaginal sex
  • Forgot to take or use regular birth control as prescribed (missed a dose, forgot to change your patch or ring, etc)

There are 2 methods of emergency contraception: the IUD and the morning-after-pill.

Both have advantages and disadvantages. Read below to find out more.The IUD can be inserted for up to 5 days after unprotected sex, is effective at all weights, and provides long-lasting pregnancy protection. The morning-after pill is effective for 72 hours after unprotected sex, is effective for those under 165 pounds, and is available to MSU students. There is a prescription pill for those between 165 and 195 pounds.

What Is Plan B and What Should I Know About It?

  • Plan B is a brand of emergency contraception pill that prevents pregnancy before it even starts.
  • Plan B is not an abortion pill and does not work if you are already pregnant. If you accidentally take it while pregnant, it will not harm the fetus. 
  • Continue your normal birth control method after taking Plan B. For example, if you take the monthly birth control pill, you would take the normal dose the day you take Plan B.
  • Plan B is a back-up method of birth control and is not meant for daily or regular use. Regular use will not impact your long-term health.

How Does Plan B Work?

Plan B (and other emergency contraception pills) prevent pregnancy by delaying ovulation with hormones.

Why Can't I Use Plan B as My Main Form of Birth Control?

Plan B is not the most effective of way of preventing pregnancy over time. It is also expensive (averaging about $50/ pill) and has harmless, but annoying side effects like nausea, vomiting, and spotting between periods.

What Are Some Long-Term Birth Control Options?

There are many options for birth control. Some need to be taken daily while others only need to be inserted once and last for a few years. Use the information below to determine the best option for you. 

Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs) are the most effective form of reversible birth control and can be removed at any time. Available at University Health Partners. Key Notes About LARCs:

  • LARCs do not protect against STIs like chlamydia, only barrier methods like condoms do.
  • IUD means "Intrauterine Device"
  • Progestins (like etonogesterol and levonorgestrel) are hormones that prevent pregnancy by changing the environment of the uterus. They can:
    • Change cervical mucus and the uterine lining to make it less sperm-friendly
    • Stop regular ovulation
  • They are more effective than many methods. For example, the birth control pill is 93% effective, 5% less effective than the copper IUD. 

Weighing Out Your Options

There are so many options for birth control, it can be overwhelming. Just because LARCs are effective and long-lasting does not mean they are right for you. Some women have different uterus shapes and sizes that can make IUDs uncomfortable, while other women may react negatively to the hormone used in the implant. Our bodies are all different.

Each method of birth control has its own instructions, advantages, and disadvantages. 

Use the tool below to explore your options and choose what is best for you. This tool contains accurate and up-to-date, non-biased scientific information.

Planned Parenthood: Compare Birth Control Methods

Reproductive Health Resources for Students

Student Health Services

The closest option for MSU students that provides all of the options discussed above.

BridgerCare

A local, affordable sexual and reproductive health care option.

Planned Parenthood Helena

The closest local chapter of Planned Parenthood to Bozeman.

abortionfinder.org

A comprehensive directory of verified and trusted abortion providers across the United States.