WHO confirms safety of repeated Emergency Contraception use in new MEC
November — The World Health Organization (WHO) has released the latest edition of its Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use (MEC), updating global guidance on the safety of contraceptive methods for people with specific health conditions or characteristics.
A key change concerns emergency contraception (EC). For the first time, the MEC clearly states that EC pills—whether UPA, LNG, or combined oral contraceptives—can be used more than once in the same menstrual cycle. This practice is now classified as Category 1, meaning it is safe to use in any circumstance. The new recommendation draws on a recent systematic review: Steyn PS, Fleurant E, Smith EM, Kiarie JN. Safety of repeated use of emergency contraceptive pills in the same menstrual cycle: a systematic review. BMJ Sex Reprod Health. 2025;51(Suppl 1):s30–s37. doi: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2025-202841.
ECEC will soon update its brief on repeated use of EC pills to reflect this stronger guidance. Current advice remains that after taking EC pills, users should rely on condoms or avoid intercourse until their next period. But if unprotected sex happens again, another dose of EC can be taken to further reduce the risk of pregnancy.
