Morning-After Pill Made Free in Welsh Pharmacies

Pharmacies in Wales are handing out emergency contraception free of charge to under 16s. The move has caused controversy in the UK.

Pharmacies in Wales are now handing out emergency contraception free of charge. The pill can be prescribed by GPs across the UK, but Wales is the first country to offer it for free on the high street. In England and Wales, it costs ￡25.

This move has caused controversy across the country. Campaigners have hit out against the decision, which will see pharmacies giving the morning-after pill to under 16s.

In November, when the plans were announced, Health Minister Edwina Hart said she wanted professional advice available without appointment and “easily accessible within the 72-hour time span necessary for emergency contraception to be most effective”.