Introduction of emergency contraception in India

Abstract

Emergency contraception is a safe and effective method for preventing unwanted pregnancy following unprotected sexual exposure. The method had not been included in the National Family Programme of India. A Consortium on National Consensus for Emergency Contraception met in New Delhi in January 2001, to reach a consensus on strategies for introduction of emergency contraception in India. During the consortium experts from different walks of life deliberated on issues related to emergency contraception introduction and formulated national consensus statements and guidelines. This paper describes highlights of consortium activity which has led to introduction of emergency contraception in India.