Emergency Contraception: The Latest Research
According to a recent study sponsored by the Population Council and published in the June 2003 issue of Obstetrics and Gynecology, emergency contraception is still effective up to 120 hours after unprotected sex. The results of the study show that while taking EC after the 72-hour cut-off may offer slightly less protection the treatment is still beneficial for women up to 120 hours. This news is beneficial to women who may have difficulty accessing EC from a doctor within the limited 72 hour time-frame originally recommended. The study’s authors emphasize, however, that women should still be encouraged to take EC as soon as possible after unprotected sex, as taking EC within 72 hours is still most effective in preventing pregnancy. If you’d like a copy of the full study, contact Meg Lassar, the Proactive Institute’s new Research Assistant, at 202-973-3015 or mlassar@prochoiceamerica.org.
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