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France offers free condoms to young people

The free contraceptives have been offered since January 1st to anyone 25 and under, in an attempt to cut the number of unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases.

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France on Sunday began offering free condoms to anyone 25 and under in an attempt to cut the number of unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases, reports Deutsche Welle.

Young people can pick up contraceptives — known as preservatifs or capotes — at pharmacies.

French president Emmanuel Macron's government announced the move last month, initially aimed at the 18-25 age range.

But it was extended to under 18s after criticism that minors weren't covered.

Macron said at the time that France wasn't doing a good job at sex education.

"The reality is very, very far from the theory. We have to train our teachers better in this area, we have to sensitize them again," he said.

Although males and females can pick up condoms, the free offer only applies to male condoms.

Condoms are already available for free at French youth groups and at some middle and high schools.

Read more of this report from Deutsche Welle