PLAN B IS FINALLY OTC!!

At 9:20 am this morning, the FDA FINALLY approved OTC access to Plan B emergency contraception-- a major victory for women and women’s health advocates nationwide!!

The one unfortunate part of this decision is that an age restriction has been placed on its status as well-- only women aged 18 and older will be able to purchase it. "While we are glad to know the FDA finally ended its foot-dragging on this issue, Planned Parenthood is troubled by the scientifically baseless restriction imposed on teenagers," says PPFA President, Cecile Roberts. "The U.S. has one of the highest rates of teen pregnancy in the western world. Anything that makes it harder for teenagers to avoid unintended pregnancy is bad medicine and bad public policy."

This decision also means that to keep this restriction in order, EC will probably be kept behind the counter, forcing all women who need it to obtain the pharmacist's permission first. So, well it's certainly a time to celebrate our victory, there is still more work to be done. Embarassment is one thing, but with all of the issues already out there regarding a pharmacist's rights, this part of the decision is asking for trouble.

Also, we should recognize that this victory has been won by many, including Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-NY) who worked to block the confirmation of FDA commissioner nominees Lester Crawford and Andrew von Eschenbach until the FDA made a decision on over-the-counter status for Plan B.

EC is effective for up to 5 days after unprotected sex, although it's the most effective (95 percent) if taken within 24 hours. OTC EC means that women across the country have won a very long and drawn out battle.

THANK YOU to all of the advocates out there!! I for one, am very pleased.