Condoms are now free in French pharmacies for everyone under 26 as part of the government’s efforts to curb sexually transmitted diseases.
The measure, which entered into force on January 1, was announced by French President Emmanuel Macron in early December. Originally it was aimed at French citizens between the ages of 18 and 25, but it was also extended to minors. France has also made emergency contraception free for all women, according to a government spokesperson tweet.
French President Emmanuel Macron, right, walks after an emergency meeting at Nusa Dua in Bali, Indonesia, Wednesday, November 16, 2022.
(AP Photo/Firdia Lisnawati, pool)
“Sexually transmitted diseases are increasing among young people,” Macron said on December 8. “That’s why we embarked on a little prevention revolution.”
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Condoms were already available for free at STD screening centers and some school health centers, according to the French Ministry of Health. French citizens aged 26 and over can be reimbursed for the purchase of condoms with a prescription from a doctor.
A customer looks at condoms at the largest French pharmacy in Paris, on September 8, 2020.
(MARTIN BUREAU/AFP via Getty Images)
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France followed the example of several other European countries last year by making all methods of contraception free for women and girls up to 25 years of age.
Contraception is free in the UK, while Spain’s healthcare system funds dozens of different methods of contraception.
Associated Press contributed to this report.
