Marie Stopes International welcomes the first ever emergency contraception TV advert

Following the announcement that the first ever UK TV advert for the emergency contraceptive pill launches today, leading sexual health agency Marie Stopes International (MSI) makes the following statement:

“We are delighted that the first ever UK TV advertisement campaign for the emergency contraceptive pill, a vital component in the prevention of unintended pregnancies, launches today.

“Women should always be encouraged to use a regular method of contraception accurately and effectively. However, contraceptive accidents happen. A condom breakage, for example, can be a nightmare for many women. Adverts on emergency contraception will provide women with advice and clarity on the choices and treatment available to them should their regular contraception fail.

“The sooner a woman takes the emergency contraception pill after having unprotected sex, the more effective it is. Catapulting information on how to access and use emergency contraception into women’s living rooms is an ideal way to encourage women to use it quickly and effectively.

“The adverts may also serve to decrease the unintended pregnancy rates among Britain’s teenagers. Young people are bombarded with sexual imagery via the TV, internet, music and computer games. Should teenagers engage in unprotected sex, or should their contraception fail, an educational, medically accurate advert highlighting where to access emergency contraception may assist anxious teenagers to resolve this situation, and may prevent them experiencing an unintended pregnancy. In addition, if these adverts propel issues of safe-sex into family’s front rooms and kick-start conversations around sexual responsibility, then they will be a very positive move.

“Advertising all aspects of sexual health may help women to avoid the emotional, financial and social consequences of unintended pregnancy. The first emergency contraception advert is a very positive move which Marie Stopes International fully supports, and we hope this paves the way for future sexual health related adverts.”

All quotes above are attributable to Emily James, Marie Stopes International spokesperson.

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For media enquiries and spokesperson interview please contact:
Emily James: 0207 034 2307
Tony Kerridge: 0207 034 2365 / 07748 948 037

Notes to editors:
MSI is a specialist organisation providing expert and confidential care and support to adults and teenagers in relation to their sexual and reproductive healthcare. This includes advice, information and services related to regular and emergency contraception provision and unintended pregnancies.

MSI provides a 24 hour information line to offer advice and assistance: 0845 300 0460.

Categories: United Kingdom; Europe; Advocacy & campaigning; Contraception; Emergency contraception; Family planning

23/04/2009

Marie Stopes International welcomes the first ever emergency contraception TV advert

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