Can you order birth control pills over the Internet without a prescription or examination?

Dear Reader,

The answer to your question is—as of very recently—yes! Up until early 2024, traditional birth control pills were only available by prescription, whether in person or online. Now the FDA has approved some forms of over-the-counter oral contraception pills to reduce barriers to birth control access.

What is the birth control pill?

‘The pill’ is one of the most common forms of birth control. It’s highly safe and effective, and historically, it’s only been available by prescription after visiting a health care provider. There are two types of pills: combination pills (or COCs) that combine estrogen and progestin, and progestin-only pills (or POPs). Both kinds of oral contraception options vary slightly in how they work but are both taken orally. When it comes to which option is best for you, a health care provider might make a recommendation based on your medical profile. Alternatively, you might already have a preference based on your lifestyle or insurance coverage.

What's changed about birth control access?

In April 2024, the Opill was introduced to the American consumer market. It’s the first combination birth control pill the FDA has approved to be sold without a prescription. It’s meant to be easily accessed and therefore, it’s sold in 1-, 3-, and 6-month supplies. The decision to offer oral contraception over-the-counter is a way to make it easier for the average consumer to purchase. This change helps reduce financial, societal, or other barriers to accessing contraception.  

Are there alternatives to the Opill?

Currently, the Opill is the only oral contraceptive available over the counter. Other birth control pill options still require a prescription. You may be able to get a prescription from a health care provider or a sexual and reproductive health clinic such as Planned Parenthood. Depending on your age and where you’re located, however, there may be parental consent laws to consider.  

Condoms can be a great option if you’re looking for a barrier method that can be accessed over the counter. They’re effective in preventing pregnancy as well as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), whereas the pill only protects against the former. If you’re looking for a solution to help with irregular periods or hormone regulation, consider speaking with a health care provider to discuss other options that may be available to you.

Should I still visit a health care provider?  

While Opill is a big step forward, and a great convenience for many, there are other benefits to visiting with a health care provider.  

Speaking with a health care provider before getting a birth control prescription is just one way of checking up on your sexual and physical health. Making an appointment with a gynecologist can allow you to have a pelvic exam, a breast exam, or a PAP smear. These tests can help check for conditions such as cervical cancer or STIs.  

In terms of birth control, health care providers may also be able to help you find contraception options for your specific needs and medical concerns.  

How do I order the Opill?

If you do decide to move forward with ordering your birth control online, it’s recommended that you order from an authorized retailer. Consider checking out Planned Parenthood’s birth control delivery service or Bedsider’s online birth control search tool for additional information.

What if I have more questions?

If you have questions about the birth control method you’re currently using or others that you’re considering taking, those questions are probably best directed to a pharmacist or health care provider. When it comes to comparing different types of contraception, consider checking out the fact sheets about: 

• Birth Control Basics 
• Birth Control Options - Medication and Long-acting Reversible Contraception 
• Birth Control Options - Barrier Methods 

Hopefully, figuring out what oral contraception options you may have access to makes thinking about birth control an easier pill to swallow!