T10-O-27 Barriers to emergency contraception (EC): does promoting EC increase risk for contacting STI/AIDS?

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study is to focus on barriers to access, controversy and perceived risk associated with use of EC after unprotected sexual intercourse. Design and Method Data are extracted from literature of MEDLINE service. Original articles, surveys, clinical trials and investigations are considered for this study. Results Even after introduction of over-the-counter and advance prescription provisions for easy access, rural-urban disparity in availability of EC poses a barrier to use EC for rural dwellers. Socio-economically weaker people are unable to buy EC because of their less or no income, despite mounting pressure for prevention of unintended pregnancy by using EC to save huge medical costs by the State. Some health care providers have objected to provide EC to the patient on the grounds of their conscience and morality. Some providers and users have also expressed concerns about possibility of increase in irresponsible sexual behaviour due to easy access to EC. Their apprehension may have some truth because nearly 3.2 million unintended pregnancies occur annually despite various contraceptive options available in USA and extensive use of EC is directly proportional to the volume of unprotected sexual intercourse, which is directly proportional to the quantum of risk for contacting STI/AIDS. Conclusions EC is one-off, post-coital procedure and not to be opted after every intercourse. EC controversy may be resolved if used within this limit. Extensive EC use may increase risk for contacting STI/AIDS.