Today, the first over the counter birth control pill, Opill, has shipped to pharmacies across the country. It will soon be available for patients as yet another safe and effective contraceptive option.
Dr. Tracey Wilkinson, pediatrician in Indiana and Board Member with Physicians for Reproductive Health responds:
“Week after week, we hear stories of people being denied the reproductive health care they so desperately need because of politicians and judges overstepping into the lives of patients and providers. Today, we get to celebrate different news. Increasing access to contraception is good for all of us. For our communities’ lives, health, autonomy, and wellbeing. As Opill makes its way to pharmacies across the country, I am relieved to know that birth control access will become less challenging for so many people, but especially young people.
I am relieved to know that birth control access will become less challenging for so many people, but especially young people.
“Opill, a progestin-only birth control pill, is safe and effective for people of all ages. With Opill soon to be available just by walking into your local pharmacy, we know that the barrier of getting an appointment at a clinic and finding transportation to a provider is no longer a barrier for many people. This is an important first step, but there’s still so much we can do to ensure real accessibility for all by making Opill cost-free. Health care is a human right and cost should not be a barrier in making decisions about their preference in birth control.
“As health care providers, we know that patients know their needs and goals around deciding if, when, and how they want to build their families or prevent pregnancy. Opill is now another safe and effective option to make that more possible for all of us.”