It’s been nearly nine years for the reason that FDA approved using Plan B One Step (levonorgestrel), an emergency contraceptive pill, for all women of child-bearing potential to buy over the counter. The FDA made this decision based mostly on the proof that Plan B is safe to use without the supervision of a licensed practitioner. Nevertheless, Plan B’s path to over-the-counter approval got here with controversy and confusion over how emergency contraception works. The misconceptions about emergency contraception and stigma around reproductive health have led to barriers to access that stubbornly persist today, in both physical and invisible ways.

Earlier than we get into the obstacles girls face in accessing emergency contraception, we need to be clear: emergency contraceptives aren’t abortifacients. Plan B, My Way and ella (and other emergency contraceptive pills or procedures) only work before being pregnant occurs. These medicines don’t have an effect on a developing embryo and do not terminate a being pregnant, even if taken while pregnant.

Limitations in Pharmacies

Pharmacies often stock over-the-counter emergency contraception in household planning aisles. Sadly, some pharmacies place emergency contraception behind a locked, plastic (literal) barrier that requires a patient to ask for assistance. These barriers are meant to prevent shoplifting however often deter ladies who want privacy. Different pharmacies may keep emergency contraception behind the counter, asking for payment from a patient before dispensing the medication. These additional steps in acquiring an over-the-counter remedy make a demanding time unnecessarily awkward, too.

For girls who only have independently-owned pharmacies near them, barriers are even higher. These pharmacies tend to have limited hours, making access difficult for many who don’t have versatile work schedules. Smaller pharmacies additionally are likely to have fewer self-checkout options or none at all. Inadequate privacy in a pharmacy impacts the accessibility of emergency contraceptives and different forms of household planning.

The Invisible Social Limitations

The misconception that emergency contraceptives terminate a pregnancy is still pervasive, adding to the discomfort and wish for a discreet way to access them. When it comes to picking up a prescription emergency contraceptive (ella®, which is ulipristal acetate, is prescription only), some girls might really feel uncomfortable with the pharmacist dispensing their medication. Even dealing with a cashier when purchasing Plan B over-the-counter might be an anxious experience for some women.

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