Traveling or living in Paris? You’ll quickly discover the city has great health services, but finding the right birth control can feel confusing. This guide cuts the chatter and shows you the easiest ways to get contraception, the most popular methods, and what to watch out for.
Paris has a network of pharmacies (pharmacies de ville) that sell most hormonal pills, copper IUDs, condoms, and emergency contraception without a prescription. Look for the big blue “Pharmacie” signs – they’re everywhere, from the Marais to Montmartre. If you need a prescription for the pill or an IUD, a quick appointment with a general practitioner (médecin généraliste) or a specialist at a public health center (centre de santé) will do. Many doctors speak English, especially in the 2nd and 8th arrondissements.
Public clinics called "Centre de Planification Familiale" (CPF) offer free or low‑cost contraception, counseling, and STI testing. The biggest CPF locations are in the 13th and 20th arrondissements, and you can walk in without an appointment. For a private, boutique experience, look for gynecology offices in the 6th arrondissement – they often have shorter wait times and more personalized care.
French doctors typically recommend the pill, the hormonal patch, or the IUD as first‑line options. The pill is cheap (around €5‑10 per pack) and easy to refill at any pharmacy. If you forget daily doses, the patch or the vaginal ring could be a better fit – they’re changed weekly or monthly and are sold at larger pharmacies.
The copper IUD is a hot favorite for long‑term protection without hormones. It costs about €150‑200, but the price is reimbursed partially by French health insurance if you have coverage. For those who want something non‑prescription, condoms are widely available for €0.50‑€1 each in supermarkets, vending machines, and even free at many clubs and LGBTQ+ venues.
Emergency contraception (the "pill du jour après") can be bought over the counter up to 72 hours after unprotected sex. Some pharmacies even keep it behind the counter, so just ask the pharmacist – no need for a prescription.
Don’t forget about birth control implants (Implanon) and the hormonal injection (Depo‑Provera). Both require a short visit to a doctor, last a few months, and are covered partially by insurance.
When you choose, think about your lifestyle, how often you’ll remember to take a pill, and whether you prefer a hormone‑free option. A quick chat with a pharmacist can help you compare side‑effects and costs.
1. Carry a spare pack of condoms – you never know when the night will get wild.
2. Keep your prescription up‑to‑date. French pharmacists can renew the pill if you’ve been on it for over six months.
3. Use the "Système national d'information sur les maladies infectieuses" (Santé publique France) website for free STI testing locations.
4. If you’re on the pill, check that your pharmacy stocks the brand you need – some generic versions have different schedules.
5. Remember that the IUD must be inserted by a qualified professional; schedule a follow‑up visit to ensure it’s placed correctly.
Paris makes it easy to stay covered, but the key is knowing where to look and what each method costs. Grab a map, locate the nearest pharmacy, and don’t hesitate to ask the staff – they’re used to helping tourists and locals alike. With the right contraception in hand, you can enjoy the lights of the Eiffel Tower, the cafés, and the nightlife without worrying about surprises.
Got more questions? Drop a comment or visit a local health center for a quick chat. Safe sex in Paris is just a few steps away.
Explore the real truth behind sexual health myths in Paris. Find out what Parisians get wrong about contraception, STIs, and sexual wellbeing—plus expert tips and local resources.
Read More >>