USCCB spokeswoman welcomes decision on over-the-counter morning-after pill
December 12, 2011
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ director of media relations has welcomed a decision Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius to overrule a proposal that would have permitted the morning-after pill to be sold to minors over the counter.
“Teen pregnancy is a serious social problem but it is not one addressed by leading kids to think they can engage in ‘safe sex,’” said Sister Mary Ann Walsh. “There is no such thing as safe sex for children.”
“Plan B’s manufacturer admits its product does not prevent other serious problems such as AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases that come with irresponsible sexual activity,” she added. “Would an anxiety-ridden child take time to read such a disclaimer? Would they have read the recent report in The New York Times that these drugs can actually increase the risk of contracting AIDS?”
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Further information:
- HHS Protects Kids in Vetoing FDA Plan B Decision (USCCB Media Blog)
- Sebelius, with Obama’s support, rejects over-the-counter morning-after pill (CWN, 12/9)
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