March 13, 2008—Spring Break is a rite of passage for U.S. college students. As millions of young adults head for popular hotspots this month, it’s crucial to remember that the motto “what happens on Spring Break stays on Spring Break” doesn’t always ring true. Risky behavior can lead to serious health issues, such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or an unintended pregnancy.

“An American Medical Association survey of college students found that 83 percent agree that Spring Break trips involve more or heavier drinking than typical college life1a,” says Jennifer Wider, M.D., author of The Doctor’s Complete College Girls’ Health Guide: From Sex to Drugs to the Freshman 15. “Almost three-quarters of the surveyed students acknowledged that increased sexual activity takes place on these trips1b—70 percent know friends who were sexually active with more than one partner on Spring Break1c. STDs and pregnancy are two very real risks of spontaneous sex that have lasting consequences after the trip ends.”

Dr. Wider notes that the only sure way to prevent an STD or an unintended pregnancy is to abstain from sex; however, if you do have sex on Spring Break, always use a condom. She also suggests the following tips for a safe and healthy vacation:

• Women taking birth control should refill their prescription before they leave and, if possible, bring a back-up;
• If you have unprotected sex or experience a contraceptive failure, remember that you can now get Plan B® emergency contraception (EC) at your pharmacy counter if you’re 18 or older;
• There’s even a new card that can help you buy EC more privately—check it out at www.go2planb.com;
• EC is not for routine use and should not be substituted for primary birth control;
• When alcohol is involved, keep responsibility in mind—use designated drivers and a buddy system and definitely don’t go home with anyone you do not know.

Plan B® does not protect against HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Plan B® isn’t effective if you’re already pregnant and it won’t terminate an existing pregnancy. Side effects may include nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, menstrual changes, dizziness and breast tenderness. If your period is more than a week late, pregnancy should be considered. You shouldn’t take
Plan B® if you are already pregnant. Plan B® should not be used as routine birth control.

Please see full prescribing information. For more information, please visit www.go2planb.com or call 1-800-330-1271.

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1a-c American Medical Association in conjunction with Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Online Survey of 644 women age 17-35. “A Matter of Degree: Spring Break Survey Key Findings,” Survey conducted February 27-March 1, 2006.

Issue Date: March 13, 2008