Emergency Contraception

PHARMACY ACCESS TO EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION (EC)

In 2006, after three years of political posturing, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration finally approved over-the-counter access to the emergency contraceptive Plan BA for individuals ages 18 and older.  Plan BA, also known as the "morning-after" pill, can substantially reduce a woman's chance of becoming pregnant after unprotected sex.  Under the FDA's decision, women ages 17 and younger will still need a prescription to obtain Plan BA at a pharmacy.  

Press Release, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA Approves Over-the-Counter Access for Plan B for Women 18 and Older; Prescription Remains Required for Those 17 and Under (Aug. 24, 2006).