French pharmacies are now offering free condoms to individuals under the age of 26 as part of a new initiative that French President Emmanuel Macron has described as “a small revolution in preventative healthcare.”
This new health measure, effective from New Year’s Day, aims to reduce the spread of se*xually transmitted diseases (STDs) among young people in France.
Initially targeting those aged 18-25, the initiative was later expanded to include minors. Macron announced the program in December, highlighting its importance for youth se*xual health.
In addition to free condoms, emergency contraception is now available for free to all women without a prescription as of January 1, according to a tweet from government spokesperson Olivier Veran.
This policy change builds on existing measures that have been in place since January 1, 2022, which provided French women under 26 with free contraception.
This existing policy includes not only the contraceptives themselves but also consultations with doctors or midwives and any medical procedures related to their chosen method of contraception.
The expansion of free contraceptive services and the distribution of free condoms come in response to alarming public health statistics.
Health authorities estimate that the rate of STDs in France increased by about 30% in 2020 and 2021, according to a report by Reuters. This surge has underscored the need for enhanced preventive measures and greater accessibility to se*xual health resources.
President Macron emphasized the importance of these changes, noting that they represent a critical step in improving public health and protecting young people.
“This is a small revolution in preventative healthcare. It is crucial that our young people protect themselves during se*xual intercourse,” Macron stated in December.
By making both condoms and emergency contraception more accessible, the French government aims to empower young people to take control of their se*xual health and reduce the incidence of STDs and unintended pregnancies.
These initiatives are part of a broader effort by the French government to enhance public health services and ensure that young people have the resources and information they need to make safe and informed decisions about their se*xual health.
With these new measures, France joins other countries in recognizing the importance of accessible se*xual health services as a cornerstone of public health policy.