Feasibility of using text message reminders to increase fulfilment of emergency contraception prescriptions by adolescents

Abstract

Emergency contraception (EC) is a safe and effective form of pregnancy prevention after intercourse, but its efficacy decreases with time.1 ,2 Having EC in advance of need enables it to be taken soon after unprotected intercourse, thus maximising its effect. EC is available over-the-counter in the USA without age restrictions, but many clinicians provide EC in advance to their patients as a means of eliminating residual barriers to access.3–5 In a randomised pilot study among sexually active women in an urban adolescent clinic, we examined the feasibility of using text messages as a convenient mechanism to remind adolescents to fulfil their advance EC …