Emergency contraceptive pill sales rise across India
HYDERABAD: Sales of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) have risen sharply across India, crossing 35 million units a year, according to a Mordor Intelligence industry report. The data show that India now ranks third globally in ECP usage, after the United States and China.
Sales value rises steadily
The report notes that India sold about 33.5 million units in 2019. The current market value stands at USD 264 million (₹23,414,023,776) and is projected to reach USD 377 million (₹33,435,935,468) by 2030. Analysts say the numbers indicate growing emphasis on family planning among women.
Between 2009 and 2014, the ECP market recorded 88% growth. It has since expanded at an average of 12% annually, industry sources added.
Easy over-the-counter access
Levonorgestrel 1.5 mg pills are sold over the counter without a doctor’s prescription, which experts say has driven the rise.
The National Family Health Survey-5 (2019–2021) found that 57% of women who used ECPs purchased them directly from medical shops. Others sourced them from government facilities and private clinics.
The wider availability of ECPs has also increased the overall contraceptive usage rate—from 54% in 2015–16 to 67% in 2019–21.
A 2021 study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information said teenagers are increasingly using ECPs to prevent unintended pregnancies. The study placed India’s unintended pregnancy rate at 11.9%.
Shift from condoms to emergency pills
Experts say increased use of ECPs to avoid unintended pregnancies has pushed demand upward. Government-led family planning initiatives and awareness campaigns have also contributed.
Condom sales, however, have declined. Globally, 41% of online condom sales occur in the US, followed by France. India and Australia rank next. In India, online sales account for 34% of total condom purchases. Reports indicate a 17% fall in condom sales over five years.
Health risks with frequent use
Doctors warn that long-term or excessive use of ECPs can disturb hormonal balance. “Irregular periods, weight gain, high blood pressure, body swelling, abdominal bloating, nausea, headaches and vomiting are common concerns,” gynaecologist Vijayalakshmi said.
She added that breast discomfort, skin issues in women already on regular contraceptives and, in rare cases, a risk of heart attack may arise with prolonged misuse.
Past proposals sought prescription-only access for certain emergency contraceptives. However, the Union government has clarified that there is no such move for approved over-the-counter formulations.
