The Food and Drug Administration has recently again tried to push through a change in the status of emergency contraception (levonorgestrel), also known as the “morning-after pill,” from a prescription drug to an instruction drug.
Eight years ago, it was suspended following a debate between pharmacists and physicians. Although both sides said they argued for women’s health and rights, the public might see it as a competition for benefits. The morning-after pill can now be purchased at pharmacies without a prescription.
The government should consider women’s health, needs and the importance of safe sex, instead of being trapped in the fight between physicians and pharmacists.
Taiwan Women’s Link last month conducted an online survey to find out whether the public supports the change in the status of the morning-after pill.
About 50 percent of respondents are unaware that it is a prescription drug, while more than 65 percent of respondents support the change.
Those who oppose the change are worried about possible drug abuse and the lack of health education. Meanwhile, those who support the change think it could enhance the accessibility of the drug and women’s autonomy.
According to the WHO and medical scientific evidence, the pill does not affect women’s health in the long term, but it does have side effects. Women’s menstrual cycle could become irregular, because of hormonal changes. It could be difficult to predict ovulation and increase the risk of unplanned pregnancy.
The pill is also not 100 percent effective. If women who take the pill are not aware of these facts, it could cause physical and psychological harm. Therefore, health education is crucial.
The morning-after pill can be taken within 72 hours after sexual intercourse as an emergency contraceptive measure. The sooner it is taken, the more probable it is to prevent pregnancy. Therefore, accessibility, convenience and cost of the drug matters.
To get a prescription, a woman has to visit a doctor, spending time registering and waiting at a clinic. The threshold is much higher than purchasing it at a pharmacy. A woman could miss the optimal time for taking the pill. Therefore, a change in the drug’s status can make things easier for women in need.
There are concerns about possible drug abuse and access for underage teenagers, or about men being more reluctant to use condoms. Women would then be the only ones who bear the responsibility for birth control.
The status of emergency contraception has pros and cons. The government should consider women’s health, accessibility of the pill, health education and women’s right to know. There should be measures in place to cater to women’s needs, regardless of whether the “status quo” is maintained or not.
If it is to remain a prescription drug, the government should enact a law regarding it.
The authorities should also look into lowering the threshold of getting a prescription for the pill and improving health education to make sure that the purpose of the legislation is achieved.
If it is to become an instruction drug, authorities must ensure that the pill is provided by a pharmacist who provides concise and readable health information. The government should also consider establishing an age limit and promoting education on the importance of safe sex.
That would minimize the negative impacts of the pill on women and promote public health and education on safe sex.
Huang Shu-ing is chairperson of Taiwan Women’s Link. Chen Yi-hsuan is executive secretary of Taiwan Women’s Link.
Translated by Fion Khan
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