Emergency Contraception and the Global Gag Rule: An Unofficial Guide

January 1, 2003

While family planning opponents often misrepresent emergency contraception (EC) as medical abortion, in reality, EC is the only method of post-coital contraception. The purpose of this guide is to set the record straight: emergency contraception is just that – contraception – which can be used in an emergency situation, whether a condom breaks or circumstances lead to unprotected intercourse. As with other methods of contraception, emergency contraception is not subject to U.S. government restrictions that apply to abortion, including the global gag rule.

To read the full report, download the pdf.