Health Iowa Q&A

Where can I get the morning after pill?

The "morning after pill", or as it is most commonly referred to as emergency contraception, prevents pregnancy after unprotected sex. Emergency Contraception (EC) can be taken up to 5 days after unprotected sexual intercourse. Recent research has suggested that the sooner EC is taken, the higher its effectiveness. If you are age 18 or older, you may purchase EC over the counter in most pharmacies. If you are under the age of 18, you will need to get a prescription before purchasing EC. The four most accessible places for University of Iowa students to get a prescription are Student Health Service, Emma Goldman Clinic, UIHC (General Obstetrics), and Planned Parenthood.

For additional information, you can also contact the Westlawn Pharmacy (located at Student Health Service) at 335-9200. They may be able to answer some of your questions regarding EC.

Student Health Service
If you need a prescription, call scheduling and they will attempt to get you in that day. If you don't need a prescription, the Westlawn Pharmacy has the pill available for $32*.

Scheduling Phone Number: 335-8394
Address: Westlawn Building on Newton Rd.
Hours: MTH 8AM-6PM; TW 8AM-5PM; F 8AM-4:30PM
Website: Student Health Service

The Emma Goldman Clinic
For individuals that have never been a client at the clinic, a consultation is required along with a fee for the pill. For regular clients of the clinic, the morning after pill is available on a walk-in basis for fee.

Phone Number: 337-2111
Address: 227 North Dubuque St., Iowa City
Hours: M-F 9AM-5PM; Th. 5PM-8PM; Sat. 9AM-1PM
Website: Emma Goldman Clinic

The University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics (General Obstetrics)
Call scheduling and ask to speak to a nurse. The nurse can call in the prescription to the pharmacy of your choice.

Phone Number: 356-2776
Address: 200 Hawkins Dr., Iowa City

Planned Parenthood of Greater Iowa
Planned Parenthood requires that the client come into the clinic to complete some paperwork prior to receiving the pill. The health professionals will ask you some health-related questions and then will provide you with the morning after pill. Cost depends on the patient's income level and could range in cost from $50* or less.

Phone Number: 354-8000
Address: 850 Orchard St., Iowa City
Hours: M 10AM - 5PM; T 2PM - 8PM; W 9AM - 3PM; TH 9AM - 3PM;
F 11AM - 5PM
Website: Planned Parenthood

*Prices and hours are subject to change. Please call ahead to double check.

Amy Van Arkel
Health Iowa Intern
Health Iowa/Student Health Service

Written 1/25/02
Updated 3/12/09