Planned Parenthood Statement on HHS Decision to Maintain Current Age Restrictions for Emergency Contraception

Minneapolis, MN – We are disappointed that the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has chosen to maintain the current age restriction on emergency contraception, as the decision has no medical basis and goes against the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) recommendation. Multiple studies have shown that use of emergency contraception by young women under the age of 17 is safe and effective, and that teens are no more likely to engage in risky sexual behavior when they have unrestricted access to emergency contraception.

“Young women and teens can still rely on Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota (PPMNS) to be here for them when they are seeking preventive health services,” said Sarah Stoesz, PPMNS President and CEO. “PPMNS offers emergency contraception to those who need it at an affordable price.”

The average age for first time sex is 17, and this coming year alone roughly 750,000 pregnancies will occur among 15- to 19-year-olds. “HHS’ decision today will no doubt prevent thousands of women and teens from being able to prevent unintended pregnancies.”

“Planned Parenthood encourages and supports parents in their efforts to protect their teens’ sexual health and to guide young people towards responsible decisions, including delaying sex until they are prepared,” Stoesz continued. “However, as a trusted provider of women’s health care and the largest provider of sex education, we know firsthand that not all teens are able to consult their parents when they decide to become sexually active. It is crucial that all young people have access to the full range of contraceptives in order to prevent unintended pregnancies.”

Emergency contraception works by preventing pregnancy. It must be taken within five days of unprotected sex, and it will not work if a woman is already pregnant. Consistent use of reliable birth control is the best way to prevent an unintended pregnancy, but unprotected sex does occur, and sometimes condoms fail. Emergency contraception provides a safe, effective way to prevent pregnancy.

(updated 12.7.11 3:05pm)

For more than 80 years, Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota has worked in our region to make sure all people have the information and the means to make free and responsible decisions about whether and when to have children.  Planned Parenthood operates 20 clinics in Minnesota and South Dakota and an Online Health Center, providing quality and affordable family planning, reproductive health care services and education to nearly 64,000  women and men each year.

Visit us on the web at www.ppmns.org