From 29 October, emergency contraception can be obtained without payment or a prior doctor visit at almost 10,000 pharmacies across England. NHS England’s women’s health lead, Sue Mann, called the reform one of the biggest changes in sexual health services since the 1960s and a "game-changer" for women’s care. Previously, free access was limited to GPs and specialist sexual-health clinics, creating a postcode lottery, and the policy is intended to reduce pressure on GP appointments. Pharmacy bodies welcomed the rollout but warned that sustainable funding is needed to maintain the expanded service, citing rising pressures and closures. Internationally, Germany continues to charge €16–€35 for over-the-counter products except for under‑22s with a prescription, while Japan has newly approved OTC Norlevo without age limits under pharmacist supervision.
