Emergency Contraception Options

References

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Emergency contraception: a critical tool for reproductive autonomy. Published February 26, 2026. Accessed July 14, 2026. https://www.acog.org/news/news-articles/2026/02/emergency-contraception-a-critical-tool-for-reproductive-autonomy

Conrad LAE, Dixon S, Gold MA, et al; Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. Emergency contraception update for adolescents and young adults: guidance for health care professionals. J Adolesc Health. 2025;77(4):581-585. doi:10:1016/j.adohealth.2025.06.007

Ott MA, Sucato GS, Leroy-Melamed M, Hoopes AJ: American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Adolescence. Contraceptive counseling and methods for adolescents: clinical report. Pediatrics. 2025;156(1):e2025072218. doi:10.1542/peds.2025-072218

Turok DK, Gero A, Simmons RG, et al. Levonorgestrel vs. copper intrauterine devices for emergency contraception. N Engl J Med. 2021;384(4):335-344. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2022141

These pathways do not establish a standard of care to be followed in every case. It is recognized that each case is different, and those individuals involved in providing health care are expected to use their judgment in determining what is in the best interests of the patient based on the circumstances existing at the time. It is impossible to anticipate all possible situations that may exist and to prepare a pathway for each. Accordingly, these pathways should guide care with the understanding that departures from them may be required at times.