[This statement is currently under review by ARHP’s policy committee. An updated statement will be posted as soon as it is revised and approved by the ARHP board of directors.]

Emergency contraception (EC) refers to a group of safe, effective methods that women can use to prevent unintended pregnancies and avoid the need for abortion. Emergency contraceptive methods available in the United States include emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) and the copper-T IUD. EC is the only way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected or unwanted sex. ARHP encourages education about and promotion of access to emergency contraception.

Because ECPs are safe, effective, and appropriate for over the counter use, ARHP supports the distribution of ECPs without prescription, over the counter or through pharmacists without discrimination based on age or gender. ARHP encourages health care providers to offer their female patients advance prescriptions for ECPs during routine check-ups or over the phone.

ARHP's Emergency Contraception was modified and recommended by ARHP's policy committee in May of 2005 and approved by ARHP's board of directors on June 4, 2005.