By Staci Tanouye, MD, Ob/Gyn
Note: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice; speak to your healthcare provider if you have questions. Dr. Staci is a brand partner to My Choice®.
We sat down with Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OBGYN), Dr. Staci Tanouye, to discuss emergency contraception (EC) and to chat about My Choice®, one of the most affordable EC options available over-the-counter in stores and online nationwide.
Dr. Staci: Certainly. My Choice® is a single-dose emergency contraceptive pill containing 1.5 mg of Levonorgestrel. This is the same active ingredient found in many regular birth control pills, though in a higher dose for emergency situations. It's designed to prevent pregnancy if taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex.
Dr. Staci: While it’s just as effective as the national EC brand since it contains the same active ingredient, My Choice® is much more affordable than other over-the-counter emergency contraceptive options. If it’s more affordable, that also means it more accessible to women who may need it. It also means you don’t have to wait for the emergency – you can purchase My Choice® and keep it on hand so you aren’t searching for EC when you most need it. Although it's effective up to 72 hours after unprotected sex, I always recommend that it be taken as soon as possible, so it’s good to keep one where you store other medications you might need.
Dr. Staci: My Choice® works primarily by delaying ovulation, which means it stops the ovary from releasing an egg. If there's no egg to fertilize, pregnancy can't occur. Additionally, it might prevent fertilization by altering the movement of the sperm and egg, or prevent implantation in the uterus, although these are not its primary modes of action.
Dr. Staci: It's crucial to understand that My Choice®, while effective, is not a substitute for regular birth control pills. It's a backup method for emergencies, not a primary form of birth control. Regular oral contraception methods are formulated for consistent use and are more effective at preventing pregnancy long-term.
Dr. Staci: Most people can safely use My Choice®. However, as with any medication, there are some exceptions. For instance, if someone has a known allergy to levonorgestrel or has certain medical conditions, they should consult with their healthcare provider before use.
Dr. Staci: Side effects are generally mild and temporary. Some may experience nausea, fatigue, or changes in their menstrual cycle, which should resolve quickly. If any severe or persistent side effects occur, they should seek medical advice.
Dr. Staci: It's important to be informed about various reproductive health options. Emergency contraception is a safe and responsible choice when you're faced with the unexpected. Don't hesitate to use it when needed, but also take steps to understand and use regular birth control methods. EC is not a substitute for traditional birth control pills and will not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases, and you should talk to your healthcare provider to choose the best options for your health.
Dr. Staci: Yes, My Choice® is available over-the-counter, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription or ID. Anyone can purchase it off the shelf or online as there are no age or gender limits. Accessibility is important with EC, and products like My Choice® being more affordable and readily available is a step in the right direction for reproductive health.
To get more info and tips from Dr. Staci, follow along on the My Choice® Instagram channel.
About the Author
Ob/Gyn Dr. Staci Tanouye, MD, is a board-certified gynecologist and expert in women’s sexual and reproductive health. She not only helps to educate her own patients, but as one of the most popular gynecologists on social media, with over 1.5 million followers on Instagram and TikTok, she uses her platform to educate and empower women. Dr. Staci is a brand partner to My Choice®, an affordable and effective EC option available nationwide, in stores and online.
My Choice® Emergency Contraceptive is available at retailers nationwide. Click the logo for the store locator or BUY NOW to purchase online.
