Japan allows over-the-counter distribution of 'morning-after' pill

Japan's health ministry has, for the first time, approved over-the-counter distribution of an emergency contraceptive, which is often referred to as the "morning after pill."

Key Takeaways:

• Japan's health ministry has approved over-the-counter distribution of Norlevo, an emergency contraception.

• There will be no age limits or parental consent necessary for purchasing the contraception.

• Though supporters claim this type of contraception is not abortifacient, it has the potential to prevent a new human life from implanting, thereby ending that new life.

The Details:

ASKA Pharmaceutical, the manufacturer of the contraceptive, known as Norlevo, announced Monday that it "has obtained the marketing authorization as a switch to OTC [over-the-counter] use of the emergency contraceptive pill commercialized under the trademark Norlevo."

Previously, Norlevo was only available with a doctor's exam and prescription.

According to the newspaper Mainichi Shimbun, there will be no age requirements and no parental consent necessary for the contraceptive's purchase; however, women will be required to take the pill in front of a pharmacist.

Why It Matters:

Known as the "morning after pill," emergency contraceptives like Norlevo claim that they won't cause an abortion, but instead prevent pregnancy by preventing ovulation.

However, because the pill can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex, this leaves a window during which an egg released during this time could be fertilized, creating a new human being. Because a unique human organism's life begins at fertilization, the pill's effects could then prevent that new life from implanting into his or her mother's womb.

Norlevo contains levonorgestrel, the same main ingredient found in common U.S. morning after pill brands like Plan B and Next Choice. According to the Mayo Clinic, this chemical does come with risks. Potential side effects of levonorgestrel can include:

• nausea

• vomiting

• dizziness

• fatigue

• headache

• breast tenderness

• heavy menstrual bleeding

• abdominal pain and cramps

• diarrhea

Mayo also warns that women should seek medical attention if they experience severe side effects, especially heavy bleeding. When the contraceptive is available at a pharmacy instead of a doctor's office, women may be less inclined to seek medical help.

The Bottom Line:

Making emergency contraceptives available over-the-counter, especially without a doctor's oversight, only puts more women at risk.

Japan currently has a plummeting birth rate, and officials have warned of an impending demographic crisis. Government leaders would perhaps be better off at helping to create an environment where babies and families can thrive.