Emergency Contraception: Ongoing Medical, Pharmacological, Political, and Ethical Controversies

Abstract

The aim of the critical analysis is an illumination of unresolved issues on Emergency Contraception (EC). This form of contraception has been offered as an effective method of birth control to women since the end of the last century. At present -- in the post-Roe generation where access to abortion has been restricted -- the interest in EC is increasing. It is important therefore to provide accurate and complete information on which prospective users of EC can rely. Material and Metho The material encompasses documents issued by leading health authorities -- such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) -- as well as research articles published in high-ranked scientific journals. This material is assessed by a critical analysis which compares the discrepancies in data provided and in claims made. Results The result is evidence of publications containing unreliable claims and conflicting views on some of the most salient aspects of EC such as safety, efficacy, mode of action, drug-drug interactions, legislation on abortion medication, and ethical discussions on the protection of life. Implications Consumers and patients should be critical towards claims made by health agencies and rather rely on high-level research in the area of pharmacovigilance and on publications by legal experts.