After a recent, ummm.... contraceptive malfunction, I emailed my doctor to discuss what I should do next.   Because I was early in my cycle and I have a slightly quirky reproductive system, I was at a low risk for conception.  However, she advised me to use Plan B just to be safe.

I was already familiar with emergency contraceptives and thought she had a good point, so I asked her to phone a prescription to my pharmacy.  What she told me next floored me.  In some states (including MA) it's available to women 18 and older OVER THE COUNTER!!! 

From the Plan B website:
"If you live in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Maine, New Mexico, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts or Washington, you can get Plan B^® without a prescription at some pharmacies; however, you should call your pharmacy in advance to make sure they offer and stock Plan B^®. "

Now, I consider myself a pretty well informed person, but I had no idea.  Why aren't women's groups shouting this from the roof tops?  Why aren't the pro-lifers, for that matter?  I get why the abstinence-only people would want to keep this quiet, but aren't there ANY level heads out there?  How many women without easy access to medical care, have had to deal with an unwanted pregnancy because they didn't know that there was something they could do without professional assistance?

Am I the only one who didn't know this?  Really, I want to know.  Please leave me a comment and tell me if you knew.  And PLEASE, spread the word!