Abstract

PIP: A 6-month prospective study of 120 clients of the Bulgarian Family Planning Association was undertaken to document the use, effectiveness, and side effects of the postcoital contraceptive Postinor. 40 of the women used Postinor during 6 cycles, 31 during 5 cycles, 29 during 4 cycles, and 20 during 3 or fewer cycles (total of 570 cycles). Most took 1 tablet within an hour of each intercourse (they were instructed not to use the method more than 4 times per month), but some took 2-4 tablets simultaneously. This misuse resulted in badly tolerated side effects. Side effects occurred in 50% of the clients and included bleeding, delayed menstruation, nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, severe menstrual bleeding, irritability, and weight gain. Four of the subjects became pregnant (these women took the pill a day or more after intercourse). The side effects occurred more frequently in the women who took the most tablets during a month. It was concluded that Postinor should be reserved for emergency use and that clients must be properly counseled about its use and side effects.