08 July 2021
Clare Murphy, Chief Executive of BPAS, said: “We welcome the reclassification of the progestogen-only pill so it can be sold directly to women without a prescription by a pharmacist. It’s an uncontroversial move which should improve access to this method of contraception, and give women another option if they cannot access their GP, or prefer a walk-in service.
This is an extremely safe method of contraception which does not require a blood pressure check so we expect any consultation at the counter to be swift and straightforward. We should learn the lessons from the transition of emergency contraception to a pharmacy medication in the early 2000s, which was burdened with a needlessly intrusive consultation, and ensure this method can easily be bought by the women who need it.
ENDS
About BPAS
BPAS is a charity that sees over 100,000 women a year for reproductive healthcare services including pregnancy counselling, abortion care, miscarriage management and contraception at clinics across Great Britain. It supports and advocates for reproductive choice. BPAS also runs the Centre for Reproductive Research and Communication, which seeks to develop and deliver a research agenda that furthers women’s access to evidence-based reproductive healthcare, driven by an understanding of women’s perspectives and needs. You can find out more here: https://www.bpas.org/get-involved/centre-for-reproductive-research-communication/
Later in 2021, BPAS will launch England’s first not-for-profit fertility service, to provide ethical, evidence-based, person-centred care that supports patients. We will provide a safe, high-quality, and accessible service, without profiteering from patients. Our service will give those ineligible for NHS funding an affordable option to access the care they need.
