The morning after pill has been longed for by Costa Ricans for many years. The benefits and protection it brings are a relief to so many. Someone who has been assaulted or someone who had their normal birth control fail no longer need to fear a pregnancy they do not want or are not ready for.
The medication works best the sooner it is taken. While it can be effective up to five days after unprotected sex, it works best if taken within 12 hours. If taken within 12 hours, it prevents 95% of pregnancies. Because of this, a prescription is not required.
The only requirement is that the person in charge of the pharmacy must advise how to use it. It can be bought by anyone, including teens and males. If for any reason someone is denied the ability to purchase the pill, they should report this to [email protected] or call the canton’s Ministry of Health as it is against their reproductive rights.
The suggested retail price is ₡18,000. It is sold under the name Posterga. It contains levonorgestrel which inhibits ovulation and creates conditions that prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg. It does not end an established pregnancy or harm a developing fetus.
