Plan B will become available to minors: How young is too young to make birth control decisions?
This move by the FDA lowers the age of availability from 18-years old that was set in 2006. It is in compliance with a recent federal court judge's ruling that was deemed to be politically motivated. The government will not appeal the decision, according to the FDA.
Opponents argue that Plan B is not safe for minors or respectful of the parent-child relationship, equating the drug with abortion. Women's reproductive rights groups counter that approving sales without a prescription to young women a move to safeguard the public health and puts science first.
Plan B can be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex and is a higher dose of regular birth control pills. It has been shown to be highly effective in preventing pregnancy, reducing a woman's chances of pregnancy by up to 89% when taken within the recommended timeframe. Plan B prevents a fertilized egg from attaching itself to the wall of the uterus but will not interfere with an established pregnancy.
What do you think of the Plan B news?
Will this help young women's sexual health?
Do you think lowering the age Plan B is available by one year makes a big difference?
Is 17-years old too young to make birth control decisions without a parent's approval or a prescription?
