The morning-after pill is now available free of charge in England

London. The morning-after pill is now available free of charge in pharmacies in England. People can now get the emergency medication at nearly 10,000 pharmacies across the country without having to visit a doctor or clinic beforehand and without paying, the PA news agency reports.

The morning-after pill is a hormonal contraceptive pill used in emergency situations to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Until now, however, it was only available free of charge in England through general practitioners and sexual health clinics. However, some counties covered the costs.

The measure was announced by the British Labour government back in March. According to reports at the time, the government hoped it would also ease the burden on general practitioners, allowing them to devote more time to other patients.

According to PA, Sue Mann, National Clinical Director for Women's Health at NHS England, spoke of "one of the biggest changes in sexual health services since the 1960s." She called the measure a "game-changer" in reproductive healthcare for women. The NHS (National Health Service) is the UK's health service.

In Germany, the morning-after pill is available over the counter, according to the federal association Pro Familia, but it is not free. Only patients under 22 years of age can obtain emergency contraception free of charge, but they require a prescription. According to Pro Familia, the various products cost between 16 and 35 euros.

RND/dpa