Six Years of Clinical Experience Using Postcoital Contraception in College Women

Abstract

Postcoital contraception (PCC), also known as the "morning-after pill," has been used at the University of Rochester Health Service for several years. In 1985, the healthcare providers developed a formal protocol for dispensing PCC to female students presenting with the complaint of unprotected intercourse within the previous 72 hours. Patients are screened for any absolute contraindications to using birth control pills, are asked to sign a consent form, and are told to schedule a follow-up visit to evaluate pregnancy status and contraceptive options. Data from 1985 to 1991 is presented and include total number of times PCC was dispensed, side effects of medication, patient profiles, and predicted and actual pregnancy rates. The authors compare the data from the University of Rochester with data described in the literature and discuss recommendations for practice.