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Not only condoms, but also the morning-after pill will be available free of charge in French pharmacies from the turn of the year.
Since the beginning of the year, condoms have been available free of charge in pharmacies in France for under-26s.
The scheme was announced in December and was initially only intended to apply to people aged 18 to 25. President Emmanuel Macron (45) then wanted to extend the measure to minors.
“This is a small contraceptive revolution that is necessary so that our young people protect themselves during sexual intercourse,” Macron announced at a youth health event in December. The sexual health of young people is an important issue. The free condoms are part of a package of measures by the French government to prevent and promote sexual health.
But there are also other measures: the morning-after pill is now available in France free of charge and without a prescription in pharmacies for women of all ages.
Pill already free in France
The contraceptive pill and other contraceptives such as an IUD have been available free of charge for under-25s in France for a year now.
The Green National Councilor Stefania Prezioso Batou (53) would also like to see a similar approach in Switzerland: “Almost all the costs of sexual health, contraception and reproductive health are borne by women,” she complains in an advance.
She demanded that all costs for sexual health, especially for contraception, should be covered by the health insurance companies – without franchise and deductible. And not just for young people.
Federal Council fears high costs
But the Federal Council wants nothing to do with free condoms for everyone. “Contraceptives, personal hygiene products and vasectomy are not intended to prevent or treat an illness and do not constitute maternity benefits,” the government explains its negative attitude.
In order to include such services in the compulsory health insurance, a change in the law would be necessary. However, the Federal Council around Health Minister Alain Berset (50) advises against this: “In view of the rising health costs and the premium increases, restraint is indicated.” Parliament has not yet discussed the proposal. (you)