The Emergency Contraception Pill (ECP), or the "morning after pill," is an extremely safe and effective way for any woman to prevent pregnancy. Unfortunately, many women know little to nothing about this valuable resource. In light of the fact that this is Sexual Health Awareness Week, I think that now is an appropriate time to go over some of the ECP basics.

ECP is used after intercourse as a method of birth control. If taken within 72 hours after intercourse, ECP reduces the risk of pregnancy by as much as 89 percent. Contrary to popular belief, taking ECP does not cause an abortion. ECP works by preventing or delaying ovulation. No egg means no pregnancy. Pregnancies that are already established will not be interrupted by ECP. It is also important to note that ECP will not affect a woman's ability to become pregnant in the future.

Despite the ease and effectiveness of ECP, this method is not intended for use as the primary form of birth control. Rather, ECP should be used as a backup option for a more consistent form of birth control (birth control pills, condoms etc.)

As Macalester students, we are lucky because the nearby Family Tree Clinic provides a confidential and very convenient site to obtain ECP. I have been an intern at Family Tree since September. In this time, I have been amazed by the extreme dedication of staff members who will go to extreme lengths in order to provide non-judgmental healthcare to all. At Family Tree, clients can get Plan-B (progestin only ECP) at a reasonable price. For those women who need ECP outside of regular clinic hours, Family Tree has a partnership with both Bloomberg's Pharmacy and Lloyd's Pharmacy so that women can obtain ECP during extended hours and weekends.

The increased accessibility of ECP for women in the Family Tree area is due largely to Family Tree physician, Dr. Amy Gilbert (who was recently recognized by the Minnesota Women's Press, Inc. as a trailblazer in ECP accessibility). For this, I say thank you Dr. Gilbert and thank you Family Tree for providing ECP as well as quality and comprehensive family planning services.