New morning-after pill package sparks debate

A new twist on contraception has been thrown into the mix of birth control measures.

The controversial "morning-after pill" is again in the spotlight, this time with a marketing angle to make using the pills easier and less confusing.

The new kit, called PREVEN, is composed of four birth control pills, a pregnancy test, and instructions.

It may be marketed to women as a contraceptive to have on hand in case they have unprotected sexual intercourse. Traditionally the morning-after pill has been used in instances of failed contraception or emergencies, such as rape.

The idea that these pills may be used in place of traditional contraceptives has not been well received. University Health Service does not plan to offer the drug.

"In general the pills have been used after the fact. If we prescribe it (ahead of time) as a contraceptive, it is a failure in our health education efforts," said Caeser Briefer, a doctor at University Health Services.

Briefer said that the "morning-after pill" does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

"My hope is that students at the University would be intelligent enough to recognize that there are a lot of risks (associated with intercourse) other than pregnancy," Briefer said.

Most students agree that although the pills are a good alternative to unwanted pregnancies, they should not be used as an excuse to have unprotected sex.

LSA first-year student Alexandra Chmielnicki said that although access to the pill in emergencies is generally a positive alternative, health care advisers should "promote condoms so that students won't have to use the pill."

Others expressed concern that increased popularity in the drug may cause a more light-hearted approach to sex.

"Sex is a very serious thing," said LSA first-year student Aja Lawson. Use of the drug in common practice could "send out the wrong message, especially to children."

Although the popularity of the drug has grown during its five years of availability, health care professionals are confident the drug will continue to be used on an emergency-only basis.

Margy Long, a representative for Planned Parenthood of mid-Michigan, welcomes the drugs new publicity.

"The more men and women know about it's availability, the more they will be able to use it effectively," Long said. "The use of emergency contraception not only prevents pregnancy, but reduces the number of abortions as well."

The morning-after pill is a combination of four birth control pills, taken in a specialized sequence, to prevent fertilization. The pills must be taken within 72 hours of intercourse.

Although Planned Parenthood already allows pre-emergency access to the morning-after pill for its registered patients, use of the drug as a regular method of birth control has not been considered, due to its harsh side effects.

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting and headaches among other less common discomforts.

09-09-98