This section provides official ICEC policy statements, supporting our mission of increasing access to EC in developing countries. They are periodically reviewed and revised as necessary.

  • Fact sheet on the safety of levonorgestrel-alone emergency contraceptive pills (LNG ECPs)
    English - Spanish - French (Arabic available shortly)
    April 2010
    Emergency contraception has been in use for decades and its safety is well established through monitoring and studies. This fact sheet, produced jointly with the World Health Organization, the International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and the International Planned Parenthood Foundation, is based on a thorough reading of the literature and extensive technical review by medical experts from around the world.

  • How Do Emergency Contraceptive Pills Work to Prevent Pregnancy?
    Mechanism of Action
    English - Spanish - French - German - Portuguese
    March 2011
    The mechanisms through which EC prevents pregnancy after unprotected sex have been extensively researched and over 20 studies have been published on this topic over the last forty years. The overwhelming evidence is that the method works primarily through preventing ovulation with a possible effect on sperm function.
    The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) has endorsed this statement, which is posted on their website.

  • Emergency Contraception: Catholics in Favor, Bishops Opposed
    English - Spanish
    April 2011
    This paper, co-authored by ICEC and Catholics for Choice, details how Catholic bishops continue to oppose access to emergency contraception (EC) and lead opposition efforts, going against the beliefs of the majority of their constituents. In the United States and around the world, the church hierarchy has opposed EC access through public statements, involvement in legal cases, and threats to excommunicate women who use EC. This paper outlines the issues and provides examples of Catholic hierarchy opposition from around the world, and how advocates, policymakers, and healthcare professionals are fighting back.

  • Regimen Update
    Dosage and Timing
    English - Spanish - French - Russian
    July 2003
    A study published by WHO in 2002 found that a single 1.5 mg dose of levonorgestrel is as effective as two 0.75 mg taking 12 hours apart; a single dose is also simpler for women. Study results also indicate that EC is more effective the sooner it is used, but can provide some protection from unwanted pregnancy as many as five days (120 hours) after unprotected intercourse. (However, because of the challenges in changing labeling, most EC products are still labeled to be taken in two doses, up to 72 hours after unprotected intercourse).

  • Repeated Use of Emergency Contraception: The Facts
    English - Spanish - French - Russian
    July 2003
    EC can safely be used repeatedly; however, studies have found that women rarely rely on EC repeatedly. Easier access to EC also does not increase risky sexual behavior or lead women to abandon their regular contraceptive methods. (Please note: ICEC is currently updating the Repeated Use of EC Policy Statement and a revised version will be released in 2011.)

  • Improving Access to Emergency Contraception
    English - Spanish - French - Russian
    July 2003
    Despite endorsements of EC by the World Health Organization and others, and greater worldwide availability of dedicated ECPs, women's access to this contraceptive method remains limited. This Policy Statement describes the need for improved access, reviews barriers, and recommends steps to improve access.

  • EC and Medical Abortion
    July 2003
    Emergency contraception is not the "abortion pill". The two therapies are different and it is important not to confuse them. EC can only prevent pregnancy within the first 120 hours after unprotected sex and has no effect on an established pregnancy. The "abortion pill,” also known as “medical abortion” or “RU-486, is approved for use in a number of countries to terminate a confirmed pregnancy. This statement clarifies the differences and underscores EC's role in preventing unwanted pregnancy. (Please note: ICEC is currently updating the EC and Medical Abortion Policy Statement and a revised version will be released in 2011.)