Romania plans to subsidize contraceptives, but access remains poor compared to other EU nations.
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The Romanian Ministry of Health plans to include contraceptive pills and other methods on the compensated medication list, though no timeline is provided; currently, only family planning consultations are covered. All hormonal contraceptives require a prescription, with emergency contraception being the sole exception available over-the-counter. Neither the Ministry of Health nor the National Health Insurance House covers any contraceptive methods financially, only family planning counseling services. The Ministry states that regulating and funding contraception through public funds is ongoing. A specialist noted that providing free access to contraceptives, especially for minors, could prevent many tragedies, recalling a past program that ended in 2018. Family planning services are covered by CNAS or the Ministry of Health under the National Program for Women’s and Children’s Health. The specialty of family planning is facing decline as few new doctors train in it. In 2023, there were 120 functional family planning offices nationwide. Statistics show Romania ranks low (29th) in Europe regarding access to modern contraception, behind countries like Moldova and Bulgaria. While official state websites lack comprehensive information on contraceptives, NGOs fill this gap. Medical professionals highlight that contraceptive consultations are often a low priority compared to treating pregnancy or infections. Studies indicate high rates of adolescent pregnancies in Romania linked to lack of information. In contrast, France provides most usual contraceptive methods free for women under 25, and emergency contraception is free nationwide. Austria requires individuals to cover significant costs, though pilot programs offer free access. Spain offers emergency contraception without a prescription in some regions.
