The morning-after pill--how long after?

Abstract

Postcoital contraception has been prescribed for more than two decades. The current regimen is given within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse. After this period, not many choices remain; either the woman may wait until her next menses hoping she is not pregnant or she may have a postcoital intrauterine contraceptive device inserted. Since these alternatives are not always acceptable, we reviewed the literature looking for evidence supporting the current maximum time limit for treatment. Our conclusion is that the limit could theoretically be extended; therefore we think it is time to challenge the time period of current treatment by conducting clinical trials.