As part of the government’s efforts to curb sexually transmitted diseases, condoms are now free in French pharmacies for anyone under the age of 26.
The measure, which went into effect on January 1, was announced by French President Emmanuel Macron in early December. It was initially aimed at French citizens between the ages of 18 and 25, but has also been extended to minors. France has also made emergency contraception free for all women, according to a Government spokesman tweet.
French President Emmanuel Macron (AP Photo/Firdia Lisnawati/Pool/File)
“STDs are on the rise among young people,” Macron said Dec. 8. “That’s why we’re starting a small prevention revolution.”
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Condoms were already available free of charge at STD screening centers and some school health centers, according to the French health ministry. French citizens aged 26 or over can have condom purchases reimbursed with a doctor’s prescription.
A customer looks at condoms in a pharmacy in Paris. (Martin Bureau/AFP via Getty Images/File)
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France followed the example of several other European countries last year by making all contraceptive methods free for women and girls under the age of 25.
Contraception is free in the UK, while the Spanish healthcare system funds dozens of different contraceptive methods.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Paul Best is a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. Story tips and ideas can be sent to [email protected] and on Twitter: @KincaidBest.