In a move to address inequality in access to emergency contraception, the UK government announces that morning-after pill will be made free at pharmacies starting later this year.
The government has announced that women in England will be able to get the morning-after pill for free from pharmacies starting later this year. This move aims to address the inequalities faced by ‘women trying to access the medication’ , particularly in disadvantaged communities.
The morning-after pill, also known as emergency contraception, is a medication taken to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex.
It works by delaying or preventing ovulation, fertilization, or implantation of a fertilized egg.
Available over-the-counter and by prescription, the most common types are levonorgestrel (Plan B) and ulipristal acetate (Ella).
When taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, it can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 90%.
However, its effectiveness decreases with time, and it is not a substitute for regular birth control methods.
Some ‘as much as £30’ is what some women have to pay for emergency contraception, which can create a ‘postcode lottery‘ where access varies dramatically depending on where they live. The current system of free emergency contraception at most GP surgeries and sexual health clinics is also seen as unfair, with some women having to wait or travel long distances to access the medication.
Emergency contraception refers to methods used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are effective when taken within 120 hours of intercourse.
The copper intrauterine device (IUD) is also a highly effective option when inserted within 5 days.
The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) can be used up to 5 days after unprotected sex, but its effectiveness decreases over time.
The government hopes that making the morning-after pill available through the NHS at pharmacies will free up GP appointments and reduce the inequalities faced by ‘women trying to access the medication’ . Health minister Stephen Kinnock said that equal access to safe and effective contraception is crucial to women’s healthcare and a cornerstone of a fair society.
The morning-after pill will be made free at pharmacies in England later this year. The move aims to address the inequalities faced by ‘women trying to access emergency contraception‘ , particularly in disadvantaged communities. The current system of free emergency contraception at most GP surgeries and sexual health clinics is seen as unfair. Making the medication available through pharmacies is expected to reduce the ‘postcode lottery‘ where access varies depending on where women live.
The initiative will be announced as part of a wider package of investment to rebuild the community pharmacies sector. The government hopes that this move will improve access to essential healthcare services, including emergency contraception, for all women in England.
