1.
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Is there a "conscience clause" for pharmacists in Massachusetts?
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No. There is no "conscience clause" that covers pharmacists in Massachusetts. Pharmacists are required to fill all valid prescriptions unless there is a medical reason for concern. Since EC is a time-sensitive medication, it is especially important for pharmacists to provide timely access for women.
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2.
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Can a woman refill a prescription for EC more than once a month?
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Research has not shown any risk of serious adverse effects from repeated use of emergency contraception. However, women who use EC repeatedly will likely experience minor side effects such as irregular menses. In addition, EC is not as effective as regular ongoing contraceptive methods. This may be an opportunity to help patients find a birth control method that will work for them in the long term.
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3.
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Can minors get EC without parental consent?
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Minors in Massachusetts are guaranteed confidential access to family planning services, including EC. There are no parental notification or parental consent requirements for EC.
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4.
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Is EC safe for women who have contraindications for birth control pills?
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There are no medical contraindications for EC. EC can be prescribed for women who have medical conditions that make ongoing use of combined oral contraceptives unwise. If a woman has a relative contraindication for estrogen, such as a history of thromboembolism, consider using a progestin-only method such as Plan B. This method provides effective emergency contraception without estrogen.
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5.
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If a woman vomits after taking EC, should she repeat the dose?
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If vomiting occurs within 1 hour after taking a dose, some clinicians recommend repeating that dose. There is a lower incidence of nausea and vomiting with Plan B, which is progestin-only. With the combined estrogen-progestin regimens, consider recommending an antiemetic prior to each dose.
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6.
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Does giving a woman EC in advance increase her likelihood of having unprotected sex?
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No. Several studies have shown that providing women with advance prescriptions for EC does not increase the incidence of unprotected sex or encourage repeat use of EC. However, women with advance prescriptions are more likely to use EC when they need it and to take it sooner, when it is more effective.
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7.
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When can a woman start ongoing birth control after taking EC?
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A woman can begin using any hormonal contraceptive the day after taking EC, or she can use a barrier method until her next period arrives. If she starts taking birth control pills the day after taking EC and does not get a regular period during the placebo pill week, she will need to do a pregnancy test since EC is not 100% effective.
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8.
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I want to offer direct EC access in my pharmacy. How do I sign up for the EC pharmacy access program?
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- The Board of Registration in Pharmacy has posted guidelines on their website for the EC Pharmacy Access Program. You will need to complete an accredited training program, have a standing order signed by a physician, and meet the other prerequisites listed in the guidelines. Click here for more info.
- If you are interested in participating, please contact the EC Network and we will keep you informed of training opportunities and facilitate the process of obtaining an agreement with a physician.
- Please also notify the EC Network if you do plan to participate in the EC Pharmacy Access Program so we can list your pharmacy on this website and let women know that you are offering this service.
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9.
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How do I refer women for comprehensive family planning services?
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Women who come to the pharmacy for emergency contraception (EC) may need referrals to family planning services for counseling and ongoing forms of birth control. Click here for a list of family planning providers. Feel free to print out this list to pass along to customers.
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10.
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How do I let women know that I am offering direct access to EC at my pharmacy?
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Please notify the EC Network if you plan to participate in the EC Pharmacy Access Program. Download this registration form and fax it to the EC Network to be listed on this and other EC websites.
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11.
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More questions??
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Click here for answers to more frequently asked questions.
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