- Women and teens in Japan can now purchase emergency contraceptives over-the-counter without a prescription, starting in February.
- The pills, called Norlevo, cost 7,480 yen and must be purchased and taken in person, at the drugstore, under the supervision of a pharmacist.
- Despite this advancement, women must take the pill on-site, preventing advance purchases and potentially limiting accessibility depending on local store staffing.

A: Did you hear about the news?
B: No, what happened?

A: Women in Japan can now buy emergency contraception without a doctor's note!
B: Wow, really? That's a big change! I thought you always needed a prescription.

A: Yeah! It's happening in February. But there are a few… things.
B: Things? What do you mean?

A: First, it’s expensive! Like, 7,500 yen! That’s quite a bit.
B: Ouch! That *is* a bit pricey.

A: And you can't buy it online. You have to go to a drugstore in person.
B: Oh, that's not very convenient. Less private, too.

A: Exactly! But the biggest thing is… you have to take it *right there* at the drugstore, with a pharmacist watching!
B: Seriously? That's… awkward! No keeping one on hand?

A: Nope! You have to go back every time. It's a step forward, but still not completely easy.
B: I guess it’s progress, though. It’s good for young girls, too, right?

A: Definitely! They don’t need permission from their parents now.
B: That's really important. Do you know what it's called in Japanese?

A: Yeah! “Kinkyu hininyaku” for emergency contraception and "afuta piru" for "morning-after pill”.
B: Good to know!