In the United States, it is estimated that approximately 60 percent of all pregnancies were unwanted or mistimed at the point when conception occurred (Morgan & Deneris, 1997). Emergency contraception is the only contraceptive option that allows prevention of pregnancy after intercourse has occurred (Calebretto, 1999). It could offer significant reduction in the number of unintended pregnancies if given to all appropriate candidates, but opportunities for its use are often missed (Coeytaux & Pillsbury, 2001).
Studies have shown that providers= lack of knowledge about emergency contraception and/or misinformation about this method contribute to its underutilization. Media attention to emergency contraception has grown in recent years and women are becoming increasingly aware that it exists. Still, it is imperative that CNMs (certified nurse-midwives) and FNPs (family nurse practitioners) provide clients with accurate and timely information about emergency contraception (Glasier, 2000).
The purpose of this paper is to provide answers to two specific questions about progestin-only pills as a form emergency contraception. These questions are: (1) What are the mechanisms of action of progestin-only pills as a form of emergency contraception (EC)?; and (2) What topics should be included about progestin-only pills in patient education about emergency contraception?
Mechanisms of Action of Progestin-Only Pills
A progestin-only contraceptive is one kind of birth control pill. It is often called the "mini-pill." Regular birth control pills have two female hormones: estrogen and progesterone. The mini-pill has only progesterone in it.
According to Spitz, Van Look and Coelingh-Bennink (2000) Progestin-only oral contraceptives (POPs) have very low doses of progestin, lower than combined pills. With respect to their mechanisms of actions, the authors state that POPs prevent pregnancy in two main ways. First, they prevent ovulati
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