Tokyo's New Initiative: Support for Young People Seeking Emergency Birth Control

Tokyo Metropolitan Government to Support Youth with Emergency Contraception Access

TOKYO, Jan 18 (News On Japan) - In an effort to support young people who may require emergency contraception, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has announced plans to launch a new initiative in the spring of 2024, whereby healthcare professionals, such as nurses, will accompany individuals to medical facilities.

This service is an extension of the existing "Tokyo Youth Health Support," also known as "Wakasapo," which aims to provide consultation on health and sexuality issues for teenagers from middle school age and up. Wakasapo has received numerous inquiries from young people concerned about potential unintended pregnancies. In response to these concerns, the Tokyo government has decided to expand its support for these youths.

Specifically, starting this spring, nurses and other counselors from Wakasapo will accompany those who have consulted with them and are in need of emergency contraception due to contraceptive failure or sexual violence. A representative from the Tokyo government expressed their commitment, stating, "We want to become a safety net for young people, ensuring that no one has to face their worries and anxieties alone."

by Andrew Yang

Source: NHK

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