Second Circuit Rules That Two-Pill Emergency Contraception Must Be Made Available Without Restriction

Good news, the Second Circuit has just ordered that the two-pill versions of levonorgestrel-based emergency contraception be made available without any restriction. That's right, after years and years of waiting, some forms of emergency contraception will be available over the counter. You don't need a prescription and you don't need an ID. Considering what emergency contraception is about (ahem, providing back-up birth control in emergency situations), lifting these restrictions is really a victory for women's health. 

What’s next? Well, the Second Circuit will now review the government's whole appeal — which includes the question of whether the one-pill version of Plan B should also be made available over the counter without any restriction (as ordered by the district court). Also, it remains to be seen how this order will interact with the FDA's recent decision allowing the one-pill version of Plan B to be made available over the counter with some restrictions still attached (you will still need an ID, but the pills will be available in the pharmacy aisle instead of behind the pharmacy counter). 

So lots of moving parts in this ongoing debate regarding emergency contraception, but hopefully the future will hold some more good news like we heard today. Because really my health is NOT up for debate!