Marie Stopes International: New emergency contraceptive pill launched in the UK

Thursday, 1 October 2009 12:00 AM

A new emergency contraceptive pill called ellaOne® is today available to women in the UK, following the launch of the pill in Europe. Leading sexual health charity Marie Stopes International makes the following statement:

"We are pleased that a new emergency contraceptive pill, a vital component in the prevention of unintended pregnancies, has been launched today.

There are over 15 methods of contraception currently available in the UK, and women should be encouraged to discuss their contraceptive options with their doctor or family planning nurse to find a regular method to best suit their needs and lifestyle.

However, no method of contraception is 100% effective, and emergency contraception plays a vital role in preventing the emotional, social and financial consequences of an unintended pregnancy. Emergency contraception should not replace a regular contraceptive method, but is a valuable back-up in emergency situations when a regular contraceptive method has not been used consistently or has failed - if a woman has forgotten to take her contraceptive pill, or when a condom breaks for example.

EllaOne can be taken up to five days after unprotected sex, with sustained efficacy across the five days. This may be beneficial to women who can not access emergency contraception promptly, for example women who have unprotected sex whilst on holiday or over the weekend when doctors surgeries and pharmacies might be closed. However ellaOne is only available with a prescription, so women wishing to use it should visit their doctor as soon as possible for advice.

It is also important to remember that emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We would encourage women who have had unprotected sex to visit their GP or local family planning centre for an STI test."

All quotes are attributable to Asma Khalid, Senior Medical Advisor, Marie Stopes International.

For media enquiries and spokesperson interview please contact:

Emily James: 0207 034 2307 / 07815 009257

Tony Kerridge: 0207 034 2365 / 07748 948 037

MSI is a specialist organisation providing expert and confidential care and support to adults and teenagers in relation to their sexual and reproductive healthcare. This includes advice, information and services related to regular and emergency contraception provision and unintended pregnancies.

MSI provides a 24 hour information line to offer advice and assistance: 0845 300 8090.

For further information, please visit www.mariestopes.org.uk.

Emily James - Deputy Manager, UK Press and Public Affairs

Marie Stopes International | 1 Conway Street | Fitzroy Square | London W1T 6LP | UK

email emily.james@mariestopes.org.uk | tel +44 (0)20 7034 2307 / (0)7815 009257

fax +44 (0)20 7034 2404 | web www.mariestopes.org.uk
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