Pericoital contraception in the State of Self-Care Report 2025
April 2026. The latest State of Self-Care Report 2025 highlights growing interest in new, user-controlled contraceptive options, including pericoital (on-demand) pills. Two case studies from Malawi, Kenya, and Uganda provide valuable insights into how women and adolescent girls perceive these methods and the potential role they could play in expanding contraceptive choice.
Summary of findings:
Across both studies, women showed strong interest in a pill that can be used only when needed, especially for infrequent or unplanned sex. Pericoital contraception was seen as convenient, discreet, and easier to manage than daily or long-acting methods. While emergency contraceptive pills are already known, misconceptions about their safety and repeat use remain common. Participants highlighted the importance of access through trusted and discreet channels, such as pharmacies, as well as clear and accurate information. At the same time, concerns about effectiveness, side effects, cost, and social stigma persist. Overall, the findings suggest that pericoital pills could fill an important gap in the contraceptive method mix.
Pericoital oral contraceptive pills
“Pericoital OCPs are one promising new contraceptive
option and are intended to be taken pericoitally (just
before or after sex), only as needed. Clinical trials are
currently being planned to explore the effectiveness of
potential pericoital OCP formulations, including options
containing levonorgestrel.”
Self-Care Trailblazer Group (2025)
State of Self-Care Report 2025: Self-Care in a Changing
World (Pag. 15)
Read the two case studies in State of Self-Care Report 2025: Self-Care in a Changing World:
