What Does Over-the-Counter Birth Control Mean for You?

You may have heard that the Food and Drug Administration recently approved the first daily non-prescription contraception that is taken orally, in the United States; however, what does this mean for you? At Diana Health we want for you to have up to date, evidence-based information so that you can partner with your Diana Health care team to engage in shared decision making. Read on for answers to all of your burning questions about over-the-counter birth control. 

What is the newly approved medication?

The newly approved medication has actually been available since 1973; however, what is new is that it will be available without a healthcare practitioner’s prescription. It is called Opill (or nogestrel). 

How is Opill similar to other oral contraceptives that are still only available by prescription?

It is similar in that it is a hormonal medication that is taken daily in order to prevent an unintended pregnancy. These medications are often referred to as oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) or birth control pills. Although they are very effective, there is no method of oral contraception that is 100% effective.

How is Opill different from other oral contraceptives that are still only available by prescription?

The majority of birth control pills used in the United States contain two hormones, both an estrogen and a progestin. Daily birth control pills that include estrogen are still only available with a prescription from a healthcare provider. Although an uncommon risk, estrogen can increase the risk of some medical problems such as blood clots and therefore estrogen-based birth control pills are not a good fit for everyone. For women who experience reactions to estrogen, as well as for women during certain situations such as when they are breastfeeding, progesterone only pills are best. 

Do women who take Opill use it differently than most other women using birth control pills?

It is taken as one pill every day which is how most OCPs are taken; however, since it is a progestin only pill, it is even more important that it be taken at the same time every day. Although it’s beneficial to take OCPs around the same time every day, it is especially important to maintain progestin only pills’ efficacy at preventing unintended pregnancies. Your body absorbs progestin faster than other birth control pills that may contain estrogen. If you take the Opill outside of a 3 hour window from when you normally take it, you should use a backup birth control method, such as condoms.

What are the potential side effects with the Opill?

The most common side effect of taking Opill is irregular menstrual bleeding or spotting. There are other potential side effects though they are less common and most women tolerate this medication well. 

How do I know if I should start taking Opill?

If you are already taking an OCP, do not stop taking it without talking to your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider had access to progesterone only oral contraceptives even before the FDA’s new decision, and they chose the one that you are on based upon your unique circumstances. If you are not taking another OCP or want to switch, ideally you would talk to your healthcare provider for their help in deciding what is best for you. We’re here for any and all questions, so please book a visit to speak with a Diana Health provider with your questions!

Why was Opill approved for OCP use without a prescription?

According to the FDA, almost ½ of all pregnancies in the U.S. are unintended. Plus, there are many women who struggle with accessing health care. In order to help these women and decrease the incidence of unintended pregnancies, many health organizations including the American College of OB-GYNs, the American Medical Association, and the American Academy of Family Physicians support this change. Although seeing a healthcare provider to discuss contraception while engaging in shared decision making is ideal, getting non-prescription contraception will help women who may otherwise go without contraception or use less effective methods of contraception. 

Will I still have a period if I take Opill?

Opill is designed so that women will still likely have monthly bleeding similar to typical menstruation. However, if you are interested in learning more about the continuous use of oral contraceptives to try to avoid or limit the number of menstruations every year, reach out to us at Diana Health. 

Is Opill the same as Plan B and other oral emergency forms of contraception?

Opill is not the same as Plan B or other emergency forms of oral contraception. It is intended to be used daily prior to intercourse that may result in an unintended pregnancy. Although both contain hormones, the specific hormone and amounts are different. 

Although there is always a very small risk of pregnancy with the use of oral contraceptives, these pills are overall very effective at preventing unintended pregnancies with minimal side effects and risks for most women. In order to better understand which contraceptive is best for you, to learn about other methods of contraception besides oral contraceptives, or to discuss any other women’s health issues, please reach out to us at Diana Health. We truly believe and value shared decision making with our clients – we can provide you all of the information and tools you need to make an informed decision, but ultimately, you know your body better than anyone else.

For more information, book a visit with us or call your local Diana Health practice. We are here for you.