U.S. Emergency Contraceptive Pills Market (By Type: Combination Pills, Progesterone Pills, Ulipristal Acetate; By Distribution Channel: Retail Store, Online Store) - Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, Revenue, Regional Outlook and Forecast 2024-2033

The U.S. emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) market size was surpassed at USD 3.64 billion in 2023 and is expected to hit around USD 6.09 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.28% from 2024 to 2033.

Key Pointers

• By Type, the progesterone pills segment held the largest revenue share of 47% in 2023.
• By Distribution Channel, the retail store segment generated the maximum market share of 58% in 2023.

U.S. Emergency Contraceptive Pills Market Growth Factors 

The growth of the U.S. emergency contraceptive pills market is driven by an increasing awareness about contraception and reproductive health among the population has led to greater acceptance and utilization of emergency contraceptive options. Secondly, rising incidences of unprotected intercourse and unintended pregnancies have underscored the importance of readily accessible emergency contraception, driving demand for emergency contraceptive pills. Additionally, advancements in pharmaceutical research and development have led to the introduction of new and improved formulations of emergency contraceptive pills, enhancing efficacy and tolerability. Furthermore, initiatives aimed at expanding access to reproductive healthcare services, including emergency contraception, have played a pivotal role in driving market growth. Lastly, regulatory reforms and policies aimed at promoting women's reproductive rights and healthcare access have facilitated the availability and affordability of emergency contraceptive pills, further fueling market expansion. 

Report Scope of the U.S. Emergency Contraceptive Pills Market

U.S. Emergency Contraceptive Pills Market Trends:

• Shift Towards Over-the-Counter (OTC) Access: Regulatory approvals and advocacy efforts have facilitated the transition of certain emergency contraceptive pills from prescription-only status to over-the-counter availability. This trend allows women to procure ECPs without a prescription, reducing barriers to access and empowering individuals to take control of their reproductive health.
• Growing Preference for Hormonal Alternatives: While traditional emergency contraceptive pills containing levonorgestrel remain popular, there is a growing trend towards the adoption of alternative formulations, such as ulipristal acetate pills. These hormonal options offer distinct advantages, including extended efficacy windows and higher effectiveness rates when taken closer to ovulation, catering to diverse patient needs and preferences.
• Integration of Telemedicine Platforms: The integration of telemedicine platforms into reproductive healthcare services has emerged as a significant trend, particularly in remote or underserved areas. Telemedicine allows individuals to consult healthcare providers remotely and obtain prescriptions for emergency contraceptive pills, improving access for those facing geographical or logistical barriers.
• Focus on Contraceptive Education and Counseling: There is an increasing emphasis on comprehensive contraceptive education and counseling initiatives aimed at empowering individuals to make informed decisions about emergency contraception. Healthcare providers and advocacy organizations are playing a crucial role in disseminating accurate information about ECPs, including dosage, efficacy, side effects, and follow-up care, thereby enhancing patient awareness and adherence.
• Expansion of Product Offerings and Formulations: Pharmaceutical companies are continually innovating and expanding their product offerings in the emergency contraceptive pills market. This includes the development of new formulations, combination products, and delivery methods aimed at improving efficacy, tolerability, and user experience, thereby driving market growth and differentiation.
• Advancements in Contraceptive Technology: Technological advancements in contraceptive research and development are shaping the future landscape of emergency contraception. From novel drug delivery systems to advancements in molecular contraception, ongoing research efforts hold promise for the development of safer, more effective, and user-friendly emergency contraceptive options, paving the way for future market growth and innovation.

Type Insights

The progesterone pills segment dominated the market, holding the largest revenue share of 47% in 2023. This segment’s growth is driven by the introduction of multiple products from various market players and their high efficacy rate of 85% when used perfectly. As a result, the Progesterone pills segment is expected to continue driving the market's growth, offering women a reliable and effective option for emergency contraception.

The combination pills segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. Combination pills, which include estrogen-progestin birth control pills, are the most used form of emergency contraception in the United States, with an efficacy rate of 75%. Its effectiveness is the key factor driving the increased demand for emergency contraception options among women. On the other hand, ulipristal acetate is expected to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

As an antiprogestin sold in the U.S. under the brand name ella, it offers emergency contraception when taken soon after intercourse, remaining effective for 120 hours. However, according to thestudy of pharmacy availability in southwestern Pennsylvania in 2021, only 5% of pharmacies had ulipristal acetate readily accessible, indicating the need for improved availability and awareness.

Distribution Channel Insights

The retail store segment held the largest market share of 58% in 2023. According to the Journal of The American Pharmacists Association in 2023, around 61,715 pharmacies are operating in the U.S. These storesoffer a diverse range of products from different players, easy access to family planning services, and healthcare facilities. Additionally, factors such as the growing awareness and demand for emergency contraception are expected to fuel the segment's expansion.

The online store segment is anticipated to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period. The increasing internet accessibility and growing awareness among women about emergency contraceptives in the U.S. are driving segment growth. Despite the strong presence of e-commerce platforms, the 72-hour time constraint for consuming emergency contraceptive pills is expected to impact on online sales.

Hospital pharmacies are poised to play a significant role in providing emergency contraceptive pills, being key providers in the market. Its advantage lies in offering a comprehensive range of services under one roof, including medical prescriptions. This convenience and accessibility make them a preferred choice for women seeking emergency contraception.

U.S. Emergency Contraceptive Pills Market Key Companies

• Afaxys Pharma LLC
• Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
• Syzygy Healthcare, LLC
• Gedeon Richter USA, Inc.
• Rapha Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
• Perrigo Company plc
• Foundation Consumer Healthcare LLC
• Wockhardt USA
• Pfizer Inc.
• Bayer plc

U.S. Emergency Contraceptive Pills Market Segmentations:

By Type 

• Combination Pills
• Progesterone Pills
• Ulipristal Acetate

By Distribution Channel 

• Retail Store
• Online Store
• Others