A study published in The BMJ found that sales of emergency contraception in the US rise by around 10% in the week after the New Year holiday. Other holidays such as Valentine’s Day and Independence Day were also associated with increased sales, though to a lesser extent. The increased sales are indicative of unmet contraceptive needs and suggest that New Year’s Eve celebrations are associated with higher rates of unprotected sex. The researchers analyzed the sales of levonorgestrel, a medication available over the counter without age restrictions. Timely access to emergency contraception is critical, and the researchers suggest public health interventions to provide contraceptive care to those who need it most.
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