Russian health authorities have announced new regulations that significantly restrict public access to emergency contraceptive medications, raising alarms among medical professionals and advocacy groups. The changes, effective immediately, require prescriptions for most contraceptive drugs previously available over-the-counter, affecting thousands of women seeking emergency birth control.
Health Ministry officials cited the need to improve prescription practices and reduce non-medical use of contraceptives as justification for the policy shift. However, critics argue that the move undermines women’s autonomy and access to essential reproductive healthcare, particularly in rural areas with limited medical resources.
Women’s rights organizations are calling for immediate review of the regulations, stating that the policy could lead to increased unintended pregnancies and complicate sexual health services. The decision has also sparked debate among lawmakers about the balance between public health measures and individual reproductive rights.