The first-ever over-the-counter birth control pill in the United States is here!
The latest
As of March 2024, Opill—the first-ever over-the-counter (OTC) birth control pill in the United States—is available online and in-person at major retailers nationwide. As we celebrate this advance in access, we recognize that there is more work to do to reduce cost barriers—especially for those who currently face the most barriers to access due to systemic inequities and other forms of oppression—and ensure that Opill is equitably accessible so that everyone is able to benefit from this historic advancement. No one should be denied access to OTC birth control pills because of cost barriers.
Eligible applicants can apply for Opill’s cost assistance program for no- or low-cost product.
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Since 2004, reproductive justice organizers, advocates, providers, and researchers have been working to break down barriers and build evidence and support for OTC birth control pills in the United States.
And now, this is a reality!
Facts
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People can get birth control pills over the counter in 100+ countries—and as of 2024, the United States, too!
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More than 99% of women of reproductive age who have ever had sex have used some form of birth control.
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Birth control pills are 99% effective when used exactly as directed and 91% effective with typical use.
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1 in 3 adult women in the United States who have ever tried to get a prescription for birth control said they faced obstacles.
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Barriers to birth control fall harder on people of color and Indigenous communities, young people, immigrants, LGBTQ+ folks, those working to make ends meet, people in rural communities, and people with disabilities.
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Major medical organizations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Medical Association, support making birth control pills available OTC for people of all ages.
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77% of women ages 18-49 support making birth control pills available OTC and 76% of young people believe birth control should be freely available without prescriptions.
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Making birth control pills available OTC is one way to increase reproductive health options, help bridge gaps in access, and give people greater control over their health and lives.
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@opill_otc
, the first-EVER over-the-counter birth control pill in the US, is now available for pre-order online, and will be on store shelves later this month! But at $19.99/pack, there is more work to do to ensure equitable access. #FreeThePill
After 20 years of advocacy, research, and movement-building by the #FreeThePill coalition, the first-ever over-the-counter (OTC) birth control pill will soon be a reality in the United States! But w/ a suggested retail price of $19.99/pack, more needs to be done to ensure access.