THE number of women who visit the Alexandra Hospital's accident and emergency department for post-coital contraception has dropped 25 per cent in the last four months, it has been revealed.

The news comes after the emergency contraception, known as the morning after pill, became available over the counter from pharmacists across the town.

Figures have been released by Redditch Primary Care Group which has its own health improvement programme dedicated to sexual health.

Worcestershire Health Authority's senior health promotion officer for sexual health, Jenny Kimberlee, said: "The emergency contraception is available over the counter in pharmacists for £20.

"And since it was introduced, it obviously means a quarter of people who were going to the A&E department are now going to pharmacists."

But Ms Kimberlee said the best option for women wanting emergency contraception was always a GP or a specialist service where advice and support was offered.

Anyone who would like advice or help on any sexual health matter can call 01905 22957. Calls are confidential.