NEW YORK--(CP RadioWire)--Jan. 30, 2006--Emergency contraception, also known as the morning-after pill, is a highly misunderstood form of birth control. Many women don�t know how to get it, how it works, and when to use it. Here are the facts.
Emergency contraception works to prevent an unintended pregnancy AFTER a contraceptive failure or unprotected sex. It works by preventing ovulation or fertilization. It may also inhibit implantation. Emergency contraception consists of two tablets. The first must be taken within 72 hours following a contraceptive failure or unprotected sex. But, it�s more effective if taken within 24 hours.
All women can get emergency contraception through a prescription from their healthcare provider. Women can also get it from college health centers, women�s health centers, emergency rooms and Planned Parenthood. In eight states it�s also available through certain licensed pharmacists.
Women should have a conversation with their healthcare provider and if appropriate, request an advance prescription for emergency contraception. That way, they�ll have it on-hand to take in time if they ever need it, such as on a weekend when their healthcare providers� office may be closed.
For more information or to get a listing of local emergency contraceptive providers, visit the web site, www.go2planb.com or call 1-888-NOT-2-Late.
It is important to remember that emergency contraception does not protect against the AIDS virus (HIV) or other sexually transmitted diseases.
Contact:
Sue Patton
Communications Strategies, Inc.
973-635-6669
