Japan begins trial sales of prescription-free morning-after pills - BBC News

Access to emergency contraception is normally available only with a prescription in Japan.

1 hour agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingImage source, PHILIP FONGImage caption, Under the pilot project, the morning after pill will be available at 145 pharmaciesBy Lipika PelhamBBC NewsJapan has begun trial sales of morning-after pills without a prescription.

Under the pilot, the pill is set to be available at 145 pharmacies. Until now these had only been available at a clinic or pharmacy with a doctor's prescription.

A public consultation by Japan's health ministry found overwhelming support to make it available over the counter.

Rights groups have criticised the scheme, saying it is too small, and called for restrictions to be lifted.

Under existing rules, women, including victims of sexual assault, have to go to a clinic or hospital for a prescription to obtain emergency contraception