FIGO publishes new statement on emergency contraception
September 2026. The Committee on Contraception of the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) has published a new statement on emergency contraception (EC), providing an evidence-based overview of EC methods (Cu-IUD, LNG, UPA and the Yuzpe method) and key considerations for their use.
The statement, “Ensuring timely guidance on emergency contraception” reviews their mechanisms of action, effectiveness, safety, repeated use and practical considerations for healthcare providers, and also highlights the importance of improving timely and equitable access to EC.
Recommendations include:
- integrating EC into routine family planning, sexual and reproductive health and post-sexual-violence services;
- supporting advance provision of ECPs;
- strengthening provider education; and
- addressing policy and other barriers to access.
FIGO emphasizes the importance of accurate information about EC, including that emergency contraceptive pills are not abortifacients.
Obstetricians and gynaecologists play a critical role in ensuring access to EC, particularly in countries where one or more EC pill formulations remain prescription products. ECEC warmly welcomes this important and timely statement and is grateful to the FIGO Committee on Contraception for this valuable contribution to improving understanding of, and access to EC.
