The debate centers around the option of selling the pills over-the-counter, or implementing an age check, similiar to the requirements for alcohol and cigarettes.
States have already taken steps to expand access to Plan B, a pill that prevents pregnancy if taken soon after unprotected sex. If the Food and Drug Administration allows the public easier access, Plan B would likely come with an age limit. Anyone under the age of 16 would need a prescription.
Currently, seven states - Alaska, California, Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, New Mexico and Washington - allow women to legally buy Plan B without age restrictions. Massachusetts is set to follow suit this fall, with lawmakers expected to override their governor's veto of nonprescription sales.
Plan B contains a higher dose of the hormones than standard birth control pills, cutting the chance of pregnancy by up to 89 percent if used within 72 hours of a rape, condom failure or forgetting routine contraception. The earlier it's taken, the more effective it becomes.
Proponents of over-the-counter sales argue it can be difficult to find a doctor to write a prescription on time, especially during weekends and holidays. Thus, the pressure to allow nonprescription sales in the States, Britain and Canada.
The pills do not take effect if a woman is already pregnant, as they prevent ovulation or fertilization of an egg.
The FDA's very own scientists have labeled the pills as extremely safe, used by over 2.4 million Americans and millions more overseas, with few side effects reported.
In December 2003, FDA independent scientific advisers backed over-the-counter sales - move the FDA rejected, citing concern about teenage use of the pill without medical guidance.
Critics argue easier access to Plan B could increase teen sex and push states to restrict prescription access.
Supporters say teens are in most need of a second chance at avoiding pregnancy, and that there is no evidence to indicate easier access increases teen sex or makes women more careless about contraception.
