Use of Emergency Contraception by US Teens: Effect of Access on Promptness of Use and Satisfaction

Study ObjectiveTo examine the effect of policies regarding access to emergency contraception (EC) on teens' promptness of EC use and satisfaction with EC access experience.SettingOnline survey.ParticipantsFemales, ages 14 to 19, who had engaged in unprotected intercourse at a time when they were aware of EC.Main Outcome MeasuresOutcomes included promptness of EC use and satisfaction with EC access experience. Outcomes were compared according to method of obtaining EC and state policies regarding EC access.ResultsSurveys were completed by 531 teens from 49 states; 58% were Caucasian and 14% were African American. Only 48% of participants reported ever using EC. Teens who obtained EC without a prescription were more likely to use EC within 24 hours of unprotected intercourse (odds ratio = 2.17; 95% confidence interval: 1.06-4.44). Minors who obtained EC in pharmacist-access states were more likely to be satisfied with their EC access experience (odds ratio = 3.05; 95% confidence interval: 1.11-8.35).ConclusionFewer than half of participants had used EC, despite being aware of EC at the time of unprotected intercourse. Policies allowing minors to access EC without a prescription may increase timely use of EC.