Poland 2050 has introduced a bill to provide free contraception for women aged 18–25 and expanded reimbursement for older women.
Proposed changes to contraception access
On Friday (26 September), Poland 2050 submitted a bill to the Sejm proposing free contraception for women aged 18–25 and expanded reimbursement for women over 25.
The bill aims to broaden the list of contraceptive drugs and medical devices covered by the Ministry of Health, addressing long-standing gaps in healthcare for women.
Unmet healthcare needs
The proposal states that women’s contraceptive needs have not been adequately met under universal healthcare, worsening since the 2020 Constitutional Tribunal ruling restricting abortion.
Poland 2050 argues that ensuring women’s health and autonomy requires better access to contraception and education, starting in schools.
Cost and coverage
Currently, contraceptive pills containing Cyproteronum + Ethinylestradiolum and Ethinylestradiolum + Levonorgestrelum are partially reimbursed, with patients paying 30% of the cost.
The bill proposes adding newer contraceptive methods, such as patches, vaginal rings, and mini-pills, to the reimbursement list, with free access for women aged 18–25.
The National Health Fund would cover the estimated annual cost of around 500 million złoty.
Poland’s contraception access ranking
A recent report places Poland last in Europe for contraception access, marking the sixth consecutive year in this position.
