For teenage girls in Japan, buying emergency contraception remains difficult due to high costs and a lack of privacy, despite it being made available?over the counter?three months ago.
Emergency contraception can prevent unwanted pregnancy with a high probability if taken soon after sexual intercourse.
Following approval by the health ministry, Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare's Norlevo went on sale at drugstores on Feb. 2, becoming the first emergency contraception available over the counter in the country. There is no age limit for purchase. In addition, no parental consent is required.
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