Medications like ella (ulipristal acetate) usually require a prescription in both the U.S. and UK. Since prescriptions are issued to the patient, men typically cannot buy this brand for a partner.

While not a legal requirement, some pharmacists may refuse sale to a man to prevent potential coercion or because they believe they must assess the female patient in person. 3. Key Considerations for Men Buying the Pill Can Men Buy the Morning After Pill? | EllaOne® Magazine

In many stores, these pills are stocked in the family planning aisle for anyone to pick up and take to the register.

Pharmacists often have a "duty of care" to ensure the medication is safe for the person taking it. They may ask questions about medical history (like BMI or existing conditions) that a partner might not know.

In some regions or for specific brands, a pharmacist must facilitate the sale. This can create hurdles for men: