- The Guardian, Tuesday July 1 2008
While women should have access to a full choice of contraceptive methods, buying the pill on the internet presents huge risks to the many disadvantaged young women who lack sexual health education (Contraceptive pill goes on sale online, June 23). With only 49% of young people aware of where their local sexual health clinic is and with the rising number of sexually transmitted infections, there is a huge need for young people to be more informed on sexual health issues.
The emphasis should be on more information and access. Young women don't just need help with the biological side of things; they also need an insight into relationships in order to make informed choices about their sexual behaviour. Buying the pill online is a modern solution, but not the answer to our growing need for a different kind of sexual health education and services of relevance to young women today.
Sally Copley
Director of policy research and campaigns, YWCA England & Wales
When used safely and appropriately, online access to medicines can offer benefits to patients in terms of convenience and accessibility. However, it is important that patients undergo health checks, such as blood pressure monitoring and weight measurement, when taking contraceptive medicines; a service offered by many pharmacists. Pharmacists can also provide advice and support on sexual health, such as prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections. Often they have private consultation areas where patients can discuss their problems confidentially.
Priya Sejpal
Head of professional ethics, RPSGB
