Accuracy of information on emergency contraception on the Internet
Adrian, C.; Kim, I.; Chu, V.; Kaneshiro, B.
Journal of Reproductive Medicine 58(7-8): 291-296
2013
ISSN/ISBN: 0024-7758 PMID: 23947078 Document Number: 266484
To assess the quality of information on the Internet regarding Plan B, the Yuzpe method, and the copper intrauterine device (IUD). An Internet search was performed using 4 common search engines with the terms morning after pill, emergency contraception, and Plan B. The first 20 websites generated by each search were evaluated. Websites were excluded if they were not informational sites. Descriptive analysis was performed. Fifty-one websites were unique and relevant to the study criteria. The majority of sites reported that Plan B should be taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse (92.2%) and could be obtained without a prescription (54.4%). The Yuzpe method and the copper IUD were less likely to be mentioned, though the information presented tended to be accurate. The majority of information regarding emergency contraception on the Internet is accurate, suggesting that the Internet could be used to increase emergency contraceptive knowledge for patients.