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Confusion over contraception revealed
Jun 18 2003
Nearly 50 per cent of Birmingham women have taken the so-called morning-after pill, according to new research.
But 60 per cent of women in the city are confused about the emergency contraception, wrongly believing it can only be taken one to three times a year.
Morning-after pill manufacturer Schering Healthcare Ltd, which conducted the survey, says the myths surrounding emergency hormonal contraception demonstrates the need for better understanding.
The firm is urging pharmacists who can now give out the morning-after pill over the counter to help dispel the myths.
In its survey of 300 Birmingham women, Schering found that 57 per cent of respondents expected side-effects like nausea and vomiting if they were to take the pill. In fact, most recipients experience no adverse problems.
Toni Belfield from the Family Planning Association, said: "It's time to dispel the myths and misunderstanding about emergency contraception - not just in women's minds but in professionals too.
"It is iniquitous that women still have to go through tremendous hurdles to obtain emergency contraception.
"Fear of being disapproved of, judged or told off deters women from seeking help and being able to make a responsible and safe health care choice."
