Contraceptives play an exceptionally imperative role in today’s society. Especially since the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022. One of the popular forms of contraceptives being birth control pills or implanation birth control. These contraceptives typically used by people with uteruses. Usually when obtaining these birth control medications, you need a prescription from your doctor. But some people can’t afford to go to the doctor.
Now with the U.S.’s decision in providing the first non-prescription birth control pill. It will soon be ready for purchase over-the-counter and online. Alleviating the trouble of needing a prescription to get a necessity.
What is the O-Pill? More About The U.S.’s First Non-Prescription Birth Control Pill
The OPill, also known as the “mini pill”, is an oral contraceptive containing only one hormone, progestin. Unlike the commonly prescribed “combination” pill, which contains both estrogen and progestin. Now the OPill is not a new medication, just new to being readily available. In fact, this form of contraception had been approved over 50 years ago by the FDA for prescription use. This pill just being new to being readily available at the public’s conveinence.
Additionally the OPill, according to studies, is proven to be more effective in preventing pregnancy. With researchers stating that it’s more effective than other commonly used contraception, such as spermicide, condoms, etc. As well as having a 93 percent in both safety and effectiveness, showing to have very few side effects compared to other birth control options. It is recommended by reproductive health experts that those whom have undiagnosed vaginal bleeding or breast cancer to not take the OPill.
The manufacturer of the pill, Perrigo, states that the pill is available for pre-order under certain online retailers. The pill price starts a $19.99 for a month supply, $49.99 for a three-month pack and $89.99 for a six-month supply on the company’s website. The three-month supply is the main pack that will be for sale over-the counter.
The company also states that they will offer a financial assistance program for those who aren’t able afford the cost or are uninsured.
Why It Matters
With the news of this pill being easily accessible, this is a step in the right direction when it comes to reproductive rights.
According to experts, the accessibility of this contraceptive is a huge benefit to both adolescents and grown individuals; particularly teenagers. Especially those who haven’t had such easy access to safe and effective birth control. Executive director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, Lupe M. Rodriguez states “over-the-counter access to birth control will greatly reduce the barriers like transportation, cost, language and documentation.”
As previously stated, with the overturning of Roe v. Wade, the topic of accessible contraception had been a major concern. The abortion pill or mifepristone already has it’s restrictions and not easily accessible to those who need it anyway. So, of course, with the lessening access to abortions, the accessibility of contraception is a huge necessity.
Apart from the reduced access of abortion and the affordability, other forms of contraception are still concern. For example, not everyone’s body reacts the same. While some may experience few to no side effects, others experience a multitude of side effects. Some side effects interfering with people’s day to day life. Some not even being able to use certain contraception due to health conditions or allergies.
Yays and Nays
While some people feel an overall sense of joy due to this news, some still have concerns and grievances. For instance, college student Dyvia Huitron expresses her concern about the affordability of the pill.
Huitron herself is new to taking the pill contraceptive, however she states that cost of her three-month supply is equivalent to the OPill’s one month supply. She further goes on to say the purchase of the contraceptive would require budgeting skills and quick access to funds.
Another concern with the U.S.’s first non-prescription birth control pill is the accessibility in non-urban or sparsely populated areas. Knowing that the pill will be in major pharmaceutical stores, Dana Singsier, co-founder of Contraceptive Access Initiative, states “I hope they look at other kinds of markets that are common throughout the country, particularly in rural areas.” Accessible birth control is a necessity for everyone, no matter the location.
The pill is said to be available later on this month
Written by Saniya Fields
Sources:
New York Times – First U.S. Over-the-Counter Birth Control Pill Will Be Available Soon by Pam Belluck
USA Today – America’s first over-the-counter birth control pill will be available soon by Nicole Fallert
AP News – First over-the-counter birth control pill in US begins shipping to stores by Matthew Perrone
Top and featured image Courtesy of Sarah C’s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset image Courtesy of Mike Mozart’s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
