Introduction
Today, We would like to discuss a very important and sometimes sensitive topic: “emergency contraception.” Unexpected events are part of everyday life, and failures in contraception or unprotected sex can be a significant source of anxiety for many women. In such situations, emergency contraceptives, commonly known as the “morning-after pill,” can be a helpful solution. This article will provide detailed information on emergency contraceptives, how to obtain them in Japan, and the increasing availability of online prescriptions. Please read through to the end to be prepared and handle such situations calmly with accurate knowledge.
What is Emergency Contraception (Morning-After Pill)?
Emergency contraceptives, commonly referred to as the “morning-after pill,” are medications used to prevent pregnancy after contraceptive failure or unprotected sex. These drugs primarily work by delaying ovulation or preventing the fertilized egg from implanting in the uterine lining.
Generally, it is recommended to take the pill within 72 hours after intercourse, and the sooner it is taken, the more effective it is. Specifically, taking it within 24 hours has about a 95% success rate, within 48 hours about 85%, and within 72 hours about 58%.
In many countries, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany, emergency contraceptives can be easily purchased over the counter at pharmacies. This measure acknowledges the importance of early use to maximize effectiveness. However, in Japan, a doctor’s prescription is still required. While there are experimental programs in some pharmacies where the pill can be obtained without a prescription, these are exceptions and will not be discussed in this article.Obtaining emergency contraceptives in Japan can be somewhat complex, but the following section will explain the details.
How to Obtain Emergency Contraceptives in Japan
In Japan, obtaining emergency contraceptives requires a doctor’s prescription. These pills are not available as over-the-counter drugs in pharmacies. You need to visit a gynecologist or an obstetrician-gynecologist to get a prescription. It is crucial to visit a medical facility as soon as possible after intercourse.
Additionally, in specific situations, such as cases of sexual violence, there may be subsidies available for emergency contraceptives in Japan. For example, victims of sexual violence can receive support for the prescription of emergency contraceptives through proper procedures at police stations or hospitals. These systems are designed to support the physical and mental care of the victims promptly. Here is an excerpt from the Tokyo Metropolitan Welfare Bureau’s relevant page:
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government, in collaboration with private support organizations, medical institutions, and the police, has established a system to provide one-stop support, including consultations, medical care, and mental health care, 24/7, 365 days a year, for victims of sexual crimes and violence from the immediate aftermath of the incident.
Consultations are received by the Sexual Violence Relief Center Tokyo (SARC Tokyo), which works in cooperation with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. For more details on the consultation desk, please see here.
Telephone number: #8891 or 0120-8891-77
Additionally, grants are provided if public funds or other public financial benefits, such as those from the Metropolitan Police Department, are not available.
Sexual Crime Victim Consultation Phone #8103 (Metropolitan Police Department)
This is a nationwide short dial number (#8103) established by the National Police Agency to make it easier for victims of sexual crimes to seek advice. Dialing this number in Tokyo will connect you to the Metropolitan Police Department’s consultation desk.
Online Prescriptions and Dispensing
In recent years, methods for obtaining emergency contraceptives through online medical consultations have increased. In online medical consultations, you can have a video call with a doctor via a smartphone or computer, receive a medical interview, and get a prescription for emergency contraceptives if necessary.
However, to dispense emergency contraceptives prescribed through online consultations, the pharmacist must have attended specific training. This training covers the proper handling of emergency contraceptives and how to appropriately explain them to patients. Our pharmacy’s pharmacists have completed this training, so you can use our services with confidence.
Moreover, when receiving emergency contraceptives, you are required to come to the pharmacy in person and take the pill in front of the pharmacist. This ensures proper administration and provides an opportunity for immediate explanations. Our pharmacy provides a privacy-conscious environment where our pharmacists will respond carefully. If you are in the Asakusa area and need emergency contraceptives, please consult us.
Additionally, if you are unsure about which hospital to visit, we are happy to assist you with that as well. Please feel free to contact us first.
Conclusion
Emergency contraceptives are an important option to be prepared for unexpected situations. Although a doctor’s prescription is required in Japan, you can obtain them more conveniently by using online medical consultations. Be sure to have accurate knowledge and be prepared to handle situations calmly when necessary. I hope this information helps protect your health and safety.
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