J Reprod Med. 2013 Jul-Aug;58(7-8):291-6.
Accuracy of information on emergency contraception on the Internet
Adrian C, Kim I, Chu V, Kaneshiro B
Source: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, USA. cadrian@hawaii.edu
STUDY DESIGN:
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.
RESULTS:
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.
CONCLUSION:
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.
Comment: Health Care Workers are sometimes reluctant to rely on internet data and usually do not encourage their patients to look for answers on the web. However, for emergency contraception the internet appears not only to be fast and accessible 24/7, but also reliable. (HMV)