To the Editor of the Georgia Straight: Re: "Morning-after pill may head over the counter" (February 2nd, 2006)
Options for Sexual Health was very pleased to see The Georgia Straight address the issue of Emergency Contraception (EC) potentially moving to non-prescription status in British Columbia. We are replying to your article because we noted some misinformation and think it is important that your readers obtain accurate information about Plan B, so they can make informed choices about preventing unplanned pregnancy.
While many people call EC "the morning-after pill", we want to emphasize that Plan B can be effective in preventing unplanned pregnancy for up to 5 days after unprotected sex. Of course, it is most effective "the morning-after".
Plan B does not contain any estrogen. It contains only the hormone progestin. Thus the pharmacist quoted in your story draws an erroneous relationship between Plan B and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) used to treat menopausal symptoms. HRT cannot be compared to Plan B because there is no estrogen in Plan B, and also because hormones in HRT are ingested daily and over a long period of time. Plan B is ingested over a 12 hour period when taken correctly.
Your readers will receive the accurate, unbiased and nonjudgmental information they deserve about their sexual health care options by phoning the Facts of Life Line toll-free across BC at 1-800-SEX-SENSE.
Sincerely,
Margaret L. McKelvie
President, Options for Sexual Health
