Access to the morning after pillis facilitated in middle and high schools. a decree published on May 28in the Official Journal simplifies the modalities of delivery of emergency contraception to students by school nurses. Objective: to limit the number of unwanted pregnancies.
The decree removes the condition of “distress” so far required for a student, minor or major, to receive emergency contraception. Behind this simplification, the ministry is showing its wish to allow young women who have had unprotected or badly protected intercourse to have a solution of recourse before being “out of time” and having to proceed to a Voluntary termination of pregnancy (abortion).
In middle and upper secondary school infirmaries, hormonal emergency contraception is free and anonymous for students.
Emergency contraception offered on a case-by-case basis
The decree provides that the school nurse “searches for the most appropriate modalities according to the age and personality of the pupil” in order to provide the best possible information on the various possibilities of emergency contraception. The nurses are responsible for indicating to the student the existing structures for obtaining this emergency contraception, whether in a pharmacy, in a planning or family education center.
An interview with parental authority proposed
In pharmacies, the two emergency contraceptives (Norlevo (called the morning after pill) and EllaOne (called the day after pill)) are given without a medical prescription and free of charge for minors aged 15 and over. In family planning and education centers, these emergency drugs are provided anonymously and free of charge for minors and for adults without social security coverage.
The nurse is also required to ensure that the student actually takes the medication and that the dosage is respected.
Another point addressed by the decree: it can be suggested to the pupil to speak with “the holder of parental authority or with his legal representative of the process”. A provision that the student is entitled to refuse.
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