1
|
Emergency Contraception: Access and Challenges at Times of Uncertainty. Am J Ther 2022; 29:e553-e567. [PMID: 35998109 DOI: 10.1097/mjt.0000000000001560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The UN Commission on Life-Saving Commodities for Women's and Children's Health identified emergency contraceptive pills as 1 of the 13 essential underused, low-cost, and high-impact commodities that could save the lives of millions of women and children worldwide. In the US, 2 emergency contraceptive regimens are currently approved, and their most plausible mechanism of action involves delaying and/or inhibiting ovulation. AREAS OF UNCERTAINTY Abortion and contraception are recognized as essential components of reproductive health care. In the US, in the wake of the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization Supreme Court decision on June 24, 2022, 26 states began to or are expected to severely restrict abortion. It is anticipated that these restrictions will increase the demand for emergency contraception (EC). Several obstacles to EC access have been described, and these include cost, hurdles to over-the-counter purchase, low awareness, myths about their mechanisms of action, widespread misinformation, and barriers that special populations face in accessing them. The politicization of EC is a major factor limiting access. Improving sex education and health literacy, along with eHealth literacy, are important initiatives to improve EC uptake and access. DATA SOURCES PubMed, The Guttmacher Institute, Society of Family Planning, American College of Obstetrician and Gynecologists, the World Health Organization, The United Nations. THERAPEUTIC ADVANCES A randomized noninferiority trial showed that the 52 mg levonorgestrel intrauterine device was noninferior to the copper intrauterine device when used as an EC method in the first 5 days after unprotected intercourse. This is a promising and highly effective emergency contraceptive option, particularly for overweight and obese patients, and a contraceptive option with a different bleeding profile than the copper intrauterine device. CONCLUSIONS EC represents an important facet of medicine and public health. The 2 medical regimens currently approved in the US are very effective, have virtually no medical contraindications, and novel formulations are actively being investigated to make them more convenient and effective for all patient populations. Barriers to accessing EC, including the widespread presence of contraception deserts, threaten to broaden and accentuate the already existing inequities and disparities in society, at a time when they have reached the dimensions of a public health crisis.
Collapse
|
2
|
Orr K, Chin J, Cuddeback M, Zimo J, Judge-Golden C, Jarlenski M, Borrero S. Pharmacy availability of emergency contraception in southwestern Pennsylvania: A simulated patient study. Contracept X 2021; 3:100068. [PMID: 34401743 PMCID: PMC8355831 DOI: 10.1016/j.conx.2021.100068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To assess the availability of oral emergency contraception in southwestern Pennsylvania pharmacies. Study design We conducted a simulated patient study to assess on-the-shelf availability of levonorgestrel emergency contraception and immediate availability of ulipristal acetate emergency contraception. Results Only 44% of pharmacies stocked levonorgestrel on-the-shelf and only 5% of pharmacies had ulipristal acetate immediately available. Conclusions We found significant barriers to obtaining timely oral emergency contraception in southwestern Pennsylvania. Implications statement Timely access to emergency contraception is important for people's ability to determine if, when, how, and under what circumstances to have children. Pharmacies in southwestern Pennsylvania need to expand access to oral emergency contraception.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Orr
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Jennifer Chin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Corresponding author.
| | - Maris Cuddeback
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Jessica Zimo
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Colleen Judge-Golden
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Center for Women's Health Research and Innovation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Marian Jarlenski
- Center for Women's Health Research and Innovation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Sonya Borrero
- Center for Women's Health Research and Innovation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wang MJ, Khodadadi AB, Turan JM, White K. Scoping Review of Access to Emergency Contraception for Sexual Assault Victims in Emergency Departments in the United States. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2021; 22:413-421. [PMID: 31610767 PMCID: PMC10676010 DOI: 10.1177/1524838019882023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We conducted a scoping review of the literature to assess the prevalence of hospital policies regarding emergency contraception (EC) and the frequency that U.S. emergency departments (EDs) provide EC to sexual assault survivors. STUDY DESIGN We searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and CINAHL from inception to January 2019 for studies that assessed access to EC for sexual assault survivors in EDs. We included English-language studies that surveyed ED staff at U.S. hospitals and reported the weighted mean of the percentage of hospitals with an EC policy for sexual assault survivors and the percentage that provided EC counseling, offered or dispensed EC onsite. Secondary outcomes were rates of testing and prophylaxis for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV. RESULTS From 390 articles retrieved, 14 studies met the inclusion criteria; all studies were published between 2000 and 2013. Eligible studies surveyed staff at 3,314 hospitals. Overall, 60% (weighted mean) of hospitals had a policy on EC, 75% provided EC counseling, 44% offered EC, and 62% had EC available to dispense onsite. Four studies reported secondary outcomes: 81% of hospitals provided STI testing, 84% provided STI prophylaxis, 64% provided HIV testing, and 53% provided HIV prophylaxis. CONCLUSION Existing literature demonstrates significant variability in EC policies and practices for sexual assault survivors in U.S. hospital EDs. Future research should assess whether EC access for survivors has improved in ED settings as well as evaluate persistent or new barriers to access.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle J. Wang
- School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
- Boston Medical Center, Boston University, MA, USA
| | - Alexandra B. Khodadadi
- School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
- School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Janet M. Turan
- School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Kari White
- School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Attini R, Cabiddu G, Montersino B, Gammaro L, Gernone G, Moroni G, Santoro D, Spotti D, Masturzo B, Gazzani IB, Menato G, Donvito V, Paoletti AM, Piccoli GB. Contraception in chronic kidney disease: a best practice position statement by the Kidney and Pregnancy Group of the Italian Society of Nephrology. J Nephrol 2020; 33:1343-1359. [PMID: 32166655 PMCID: PMC7701165 DOI: 10.1007/s40620-020-00717-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Even though fertility is reduced, conception and delivery are possible in all stages of CKD. While successful planned pregnancies are increasing, an unwanted pregnancy may have long-lasting deleterious effects, hence the importance of birth control, an issue often disregarded in clinical practice. The evidence summarized in this position statement is mainly derived from the overall population, or other patient categories, in the lack of guidelines specifically addressed to CKD. Oestroprogestagents can be used in early, non-proteinuric CKD, excluding SLE and immunologic disorders, at high risk of thromboembolism and hypertension. Conversely, progestin only is generally safe and its main side effect is intramestrual spotting. Non-medicated intrauterine devices are a good alternative; their use needs to be carefully evaluated in patients at a high risk of pelvic infection, even though the degree of risk remains controversial. Barrier methods, relatively efficacious when correctly used, have few risks, and condoms are the only contraceptives that protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Surgical sterilization is rarely used also because of the risks surgery involves; it is not definitely contraindicated, and may be considered in selected cases. Emergency contraception with high-dose progestins or intrauterine devices is not contraindicated but should be avoided whenever possible, even if far preferable to abortion. Surgical abortion is invasive, but experience with medical abortion in CKD is still limited, especially in the late stages of the disease. In summary, personalized contraception is feasible, safe and should be offered to all CKD women of childbearing age who do not want to get pregnant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Attini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Città della Salute e della Scienza, Ospedale Sant'Anna, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Benedetta Montersino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Città della Salute e della Scienza, Ospedale Sant'Anna, Turin, Italy
| | - Linda Gammaro
- Nephrology Ospedale Fracastoro San Bonifacio, San Bonifacio, Italy
| | | | - Gabriella Moroni
- Nephrology, Fondazione Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore, Milan, Italy
| | - Domenico Santoro
- Nephrology and Dialysis, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria "G. Martino", Messina, Italy
| | - Donatella Spotti
- Nephrology and Dialysis, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Bianca Masturzo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Città della Salute e della Scienza, Ospedale Sant'Anna, Turin, Italy
| | - Isabella Bianca Gazzani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Città della Salute e della Scienza, Ospedale Sant'Anna, Turin, Italy
| | - Guido Menato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Città della Salute e della Scienza, Ospedale Sant'Anna, Turin, Italy
| | - Valentina Donvito
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ospedale Sant'Anna, Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Paoletti
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giorgina Barbara Piccoli
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Università di Torino, Turin, Italy. .,Nephrology and Dialysis, Centre Hospitalier Le Mans, Le Mans, France.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chin J, Salcedo J, Raidoo S. Over-The-Counter Availability of Levonorgestrel Emergency Contraception in Pharmacies on Oahu. PHARMACY 2020; 8:pharmacy8010020. [PMID: 32075212 PMCID: PMC7151709 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy8010020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the United States Food and Drug Administration’s approval of over-the-counter levonorgestrel emergency contraception, access to this time-sensitive medication has improved. However, multiple barriers, including the cost of the medication and pharmacy availability, still exist. The objective of this study was to determine the over-the-counter availability of levonorgestrel emergency contraception in pharmacies on Oahu, Hawaii. We conducted a cross-sectional population-based study using in-person simulated patient encounters at all pharmacies on Oahu. Out of 109 chain pharmacies and 13 independent pharmacies, 102 (84%) pharmacies had levonorgestrel emergency contraception available over the counter. Of pharmacies in which it was available, 12.7% required an employee to unlock the medication, 37.3% required the medication to be unlocked at the register, 29.4% were packaged in a large plastic box, and 3.9% were packaged in a blister pack. Levonorgestrel emergency contraception is widely available as an over-the-counter medication in pharmacies on Oahu, yet there are packaging and display practices that make it less accessible. Many of these practices could be improved with pharmacy education or changes in store policies. Systems-based interventions are needed to improve the access to levonorgestrel emergency contraception as an over-the-counter medication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Chin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women’s Health, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI 96826, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Jennifer Salcedo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Edinburg, TX 78501, USA;
| | - Shandhini Raidoo
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women’s Health, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI 96826, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kaller S, Mays A, Freedman L, Harper CC, Biggs MA. Exploring young women's reasons for adopting intrauterine or oral emergency contraception in the United States: a qualitative study. BMC Womens Health 2020; 20:15. [PMID: 31992295 PMCID: PMC6986082 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-020-0886-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recent focus on increasing access to long-acting reversible contraceptive methods has often overlooked the diverse reasons why women may choose less effective methods even when significant access barriers have been removed. While the copper intrauterine device (IUD) is considered an acceptable alternative to emergency contraception pills (ECPs), it is unclear to what extent low rates of provision and use are due to patient preferences versus structural access barriers. This study explores factors that influence patients' choice between ECPs and the copper IUD as EC, including prior experiences with contraception and attitudes toward EC methods, in settings where both options are available at no cost. METHODS We telephone-interviewed 17 patients seeking EC from three San Francisco Bay Area youth-serving clinics that offered the IUD as EC and ECPs as standard practice, regarding their experiences choosing an EC method. We thematically coded all interview transcripts, then summarized the themes related to reasons for choosing ECPs or the IUD as EC. RESULTS Ten participants left their EC visit with ECPs and seven with the IUD as EC option. Women chose ECPs because they were familiar and easily accessible. Reasons for not adopting the copper IUD included having had prior negative experiences with the IUD, concerns about its side effects and the placement procedure, and lack of awareness about the copper IUD. Women who chose the IUD as EC did so primarily because of its long-term efficacy, invisibility, lack of hormones, longer window of post-coital utility, and a desire to not rely on ECPs. Women who chose the IUD as EC had not had prior negative experiences with the IUD, had already been interested in the IUD, and were ready and able to have it placed that day. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights that women have varied and well-considered reasons for choosing each EC method. Both ECPs and the copper IUD are important and acceptable EC options, each with their own features offering benefits to patients. Efforts to destigmatize repeated use of ECPs and validate women's choice of either EC method are needed to support women in their EC method decision-making.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shelly Kaller
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 1330 Broadway, Suite 1100, Oakland, CA 94612 USA
| | - Aisha Mays
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 1330 Broadway, Suite 1100, Oakland, CA 94612 USA
| | - Lori Freedman
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 1330 Broadway, Suite 1100, Oakland, CA 94612 USA
| | - Cynthia C. Harper
- Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 3333 California St, Suite 335, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| | - M. Antonia Biggs
- Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health (ANSIRH), Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 1330 Broadway, Suite 1100, Oakland, CA 94612 USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Said A, Ganso M, Freudewald L, Schulz M. Trends in dispensing oral emergency contraceptives and safety issues: a survey of German community pharmacists. Int J Clin Pharm 2019; 41:1499-1506. [DOI: 10.1007/s11096-019-00911-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background Oral emergency contraceptives containing levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate are available without prescription and only in pharmacies in Germany since March 2015. Due to this change community pharmacists are responsible for evaluating whether the product is appropriate and to educate women on proper use. Objective To measure the utilization of emergency contraceptives without a prescription and describe potential concerns and safety issues identified by community pharmacists in Germany. Setting The Drug Commission of German Pharmacists' nationwide network of reference pharmacies which includes 860 community pharmacies. Methods Reference community pharmacies were asked to participate in the eleven-questions online survey. Respondents were asked to recall their experiences with oral emergency contraceptives in the past 3 months. Data were collected between January 8 and February 19, 2018. Main outcome measure The survey focused on the utilization of emergency contraceptives without a prescription in Germany, and on the pharmacists’ experiences with (potential) problems and concerns regarding safe use. Results In total, 555 community pharmacies (64.5%) participated. Overall 38.2% of community pharmacists stated they dispensed six to ten courses of emergency contraceptives within the past 3 months. In addition, 54.3% of the pharmacists estimated they dispensed emergency contraceptives exclusively without prescription and 35.9% dispensed more than 30% of emergency contraceptives during night-time and emergency services. Moreover, 82.8% of pharmacists stated that emergency contraceptives were requested not by the women concerned but a third person and 44.3% identified uncertainties in woman's self-diagnosis. Three out of four pharmacists had concerns about the effective and safe use of emergency contraceptives. In situations suggesting sexually transmitted diseases, or suspicion for use of force, 59.5% and 55.8% of the pharmacists, respectively, dispensed emergency contraceptives. In cases of acute health impairment or chronic disease, or (potentially) relevant drug/drug interaction, the vast majority (91.0% and 90.5%) did not. Here, most pharmacists referred to gynecologists. Conclusion Pharmacists had safety concerns when dispensing emergency contraceptives. Professional expertise in evaluating the need for oral emergency contraceptives and the proper use is needed.
Collapse
|
8
|
Women using hormonal contraceptives show increased valence ratings and memory performance for emotional information. Neuropsychopharmacology 2019; 44:1258-1264. [PMID: 30836380 PMCID: PMC6784990 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-019-0362-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Perception of emotional valence and emotional memory performance vary across the menstrual cycle. However, the consequences of altered ovarian hormone levels due to the intake of hormonal contraceptives on these emotional and cognitive processes remain to be established. In the present study, which included 2169 healthy young females, we show that hormonal contraceptives (HC) users rated emotional pictures as more emotional than HC-non-users and outperformed non-users in terms of better memory recall of emotional pictures. The observed association between HC-status and memory performance was partially mediated by the perception of emotional picture valence, indicating that increased valence ratings of emotional pictures in HC-users led to their better emotional memory performance. These findings extend the knowledge about the relation of HC-intake with emotional valence perception and emotional memory performance. Further, the findings might stimulate further research investigating the interrelation of enhanced memory for emotional events and the increased risk for anxiety-related psychiatric disorders in women.
Collapse
|
9
|
|
10
|
Saldanha N. Use of Short Acting Reversible Contraception in Adolescents: The Pill, Patch, Ring and Emergency Contraception. Curr Probl Pediatr Adolesc Health Care 2018; 48:333-344. [PMID: 30470471 DOI: 10.1016/j.cppeds.2018.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Long acting reversible contraception (LARC) is the recommend form of birth control for adolescents by both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology, but the majority of adolescents continue to use short acting reversible contraception (SARC) such as the oral contraceptive pill, vaginal ring, and transdermal patch. For this reason, it is important for medical providers to be familiar with how to prescribe and manage SARC in adolescents, paying particular attention to which patients are eligible to use them, which benefits the methods have outside of contraception, what side effects to be aware of, and special considerations for adolescents. Many adolescents will choose not to use any form of hormonal contraception-thus having a knowledge about and comfort with use of emergency contraception is of equal importance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Saldanha
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Northwell Health, 410 Lakeville Road, Suite 108, New Hyde Park, New York, NY 11042, United State; Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Hempstead, New York, United State.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Use of Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) and the Depo-Provera Shot in Adolescents. Curr Probl Pediatr Adolesc Health Care 2018; 48:321-332. [PMID: 30466840 DOI: 10.1016/j.cppeds.2018.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The intrauterine devices (IUDs) and the subdermal implant, collectively known as long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC), along with the Depo-Provera shot, represent highly efficacious methods of birth control for all reproductive-age women, including adolescents. They are also safe, private, and convenient, and can be used for their noncontraceptive benefits. Additionally, LARC and Depo-Provera represent methods of contraception that do not contain estrogen and may be safely used in young women who have contraindications to estrogen-containing medications. The LARC methods have traditionally been underused by adolescents due to lack of knowledge and misperceptions about safety and effects on future fertility. However, studies have found that when barriers to the use of LARC are removed, adolescents have increasingly chosen the IUD and implant for birth control and most continue to use these methods with satisfaction. This chapter will provide an overview of IUDs, the subdermal implant and Depo-Provera, address barriers to care for adolescents, efficacy, continuation rates, common side effects and reasons for discontinuation, contraindications, and noncontraceptive benefits.
Collapse
|
12
|
Haeger KO, Lamme J, Cleland K. State of emergency contraception in the U.S., 2018. Contracept Reprod Med 2018; 3:20. [PMID: 30202545 PMCID: PMC6123910 DOI: 10.1186/s40834-018-0067-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Emergency contraception is indicated in instances of unprotected sexual intercourse, including reproductive coercion, sexual assault, and contraceptive failure. It plays a role in averting unintended pregnancies due to inconsistent use or non-use of contraception. Options for emergency contraception vary by efficacy as well as accessibility within the U.S. This paper provides an overview of levonorgestrel (Plan B One-Step and generic counterparts), ulipristal acetate (sold as ella), and the copper intrauterine device (IUD, sold as ParaGard), including the mechanisms of action, administration, efficacy, drug interactions, safety, side effects, advantages, and drawbacks. It will also review current misconceptions about emergency contraception and access for subpopulations, including adolescents, immigrants, survivors of sexual assault, rural populations, and military/veteran women. This paper will address barriers such as gaps in knowledge, and financial, health systems, and practice barriers. Continuing areas of research, including the impact of body weight on the efficacy of emergency contraceptive pills and potential interactions between ulipristal acetate and ongoing hormonal contraceptives, are also addressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristin O. Haeger
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, Office of Patient Care Services, Women’s Health Services, 810 Vermont Ave., NW, Washington, DC, 20420 USA
| | - Jacqueline Lamme
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Kelly Cleland
- Office of Population Research, Princeton University, 218 Wallace Hall, Princeton, NJ 08544 USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Garrett Wagner KP, Widman L, Nesi J, Noar SM. Intentions to use emergency contraception: The role of accurate knowledge and information source credibility. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH EDUCATION 2018; 49:264-270. [PMID: 30397420 DOI: 10.1080/19325037.2018.1473179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Background Emergency contraception (EC) is a highly effective form of birth control that may lower rates of unintended pregnancy among young women. But efforts to disseminate EC to women are hampered by misinformation and inadequate information. Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine the sources from which young women learn about EC (including health care providers, friends/interpersonal sources, media sources, or no information sources), and to examine source credibility with the accuracy of EC knowledge and intentions to use EC. Method Using a computer-based survey, 339 college women (M age = 18.4) reported their EC information sources, knowledge about EC, and behavioral intentions to use EC. Results In total, 97% of participants had heard of EC from at least one source and 49% indicated they were highly likely to use EC in the future if needed. Results demonstrated that EC knowledge mediated the relationship between EC information source credibility and intentions to use EC. Discussion This study contributes important insights to a scarce literature on EC information sources and the factors that predict intentions to use EC. Translation to Health Education Practice Future EC promotion efforts should target health education sources instead of media or interpersonal sources to promote EC knowledge and use among young, sexually at-risk populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyla P Garrett Wagner
- School of Media and Journalism, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carroll Hall, 114 E Cameron Ave, Chapel Hill, NC 27514,
| | - Laura Widman
- Department of Psychology, North Carolina State University, 640 Poe Hall; 2310 Stinson Dr. Raleigh, NC 27695,
| | - Jacqueline Nesi
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 259 Davie Hall, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514,
| | - Seth M Noar
- School of Media and Journalism, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carroll Hall, 114 E Cameron Ave, Chapel Hill, NC 27514,
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Emergency Contraception. Nurs Womens Health 2017; 21:506-508. [PMID: 29223214 DOI: 10.1016/s1751-4851(17)30328-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
|
15
|
Hrgovic Z, Habek D, Cerkez Habek J, Hrgovic I, Jerkovic Gulin S, Gulin D. Spontaneous pregnancy during ulipristal acetate treatment of giant uterine leiomyoma. J Clin Pharm Ther 2017; 43:121-123. [DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.12590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Z. Hrgovic
- J.W. Goethe University; Medical School of Frankfurt; Frankfurt Germany
| | - D. Habek
- ”Sveti Duh” University Hospital; Zagreb Croatia
- Croatian Catholic University; Zagreb Croatia
| | - J. Cerkez Habek
- ”Sveti Duh” University Hospital; Zagreb Croatia
- Croatian Catholic University; Zagreb Croatia
| | - I. Hrgovic
- J.W. Goethe University; Medical School of Frankfurt; Frankfurt Germany
| | | | - D. Gulin
- ”Sveti Duh” University Hospital; Zagreb Croatia
| |
Collapse
|