The views of women and pharmacists on the desirability of a progestogen-only pill over the counter. Results of a survey in Germany, Italy and Spain.

PURPOSE: To explore the perceived need and enthusiasm for over the counter (OTC) progestogen-only pills (POP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A web-based survey of 1000 sexually active women (16-45) and 100 pharmacists in Germany, Italy and Spain. RESULTS: Despite not wanting to conceive, 5-6% of women in each country were not using contraception and 8-20% were using methods less effective than condoms. At least 74% of respondents felt knowledgeable about the different contraceptives available but at least 1/3 had experienced difficulty accessing oral contraceptive (OCs) in the past two years. The cost of contraceptives, the need to see a doctor and long waits for appointments were cited as barriers for not using OCs. The majority agreed they would discuss with their doctor the decision to buy the POP, consult about side effects and other reproductive health issues. Over 2/3 of pharmacists in each country would be very, or fairly, likely to recommend the POP, agreeing that the benefits included improved access for women, and offered them more independence. CONCLUSIONS: Asked directly, women in Germany, Spain and Italy currently using contraception are positive about a POP OTC. Pharmacists are also positive, with the overwhelming majority in favour of providing POPs.

Self-care with non-prescription medicines to improve health care access and quality of life in low- and middle-income countries: systematic review and methodological approach.

Objectives: This study aims to develop a structured framework to capture beneficial effects and determine the value of self-care for individuals and society in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). A special focus is placed on self-medication with non-prescription medicines. Methods: PubMed, Google Scholar and websites of associations or organizations were systematically searched for economic studies on self-care and self-medication published between 2000 and 2021. The insights gained from the literature review were incorporated into the development of a decision tree model. Results: The literature review revealed a lack of research and available data on the role and value of self-care in LMICs. To help close the research gap a methodological framework was developed that defines different settings of self-care, their effects and relevant outcomes and allows a quantification with regard to self-medication in LMICs. Conclusion: Self-care offers individuals a convenient and reliable way to take care of their own health, especially in LMICs where access to health services can be challenging. In particular it is crucial to improve individuals access to clinically effective, safe and reliable non-prescription medicines.