Abstract

Emergency contraception, sometimes referred to as "morning after" or postcoital contraception, provides a second chance for women who experience contraceptive failure or do not use a method, as well as for women who experience unplanned intercourse, including coerced sex or rape. The two primary methods of emergency contraception are postcoital use of a higher dose of oral contraceptive pills and insertion of an intrauterine device (IUD). Both can significantly reduce a woman's chance of becoming pregnant (75% and 99% respectively).

Knowledge of emergency contraception is crucial, since women must know they can prevent pregnancy after intercourse in order to seek out treatment. While rates of unwanted pregnancy vary in different countries and among population groups, the need for emergency contraception is critical worldwide. However, the availability of emergency contraception differs widely. It is most extensively used in Europe, but is still a new method in other countries, including the United States.

Ms. Westley is currently an associate at AVSC International in New York City. At the time she wrote this paper, she was a staff associate at the Population Council.

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