Opill Is Right here and It’s Over the Counter

Usually, the method of getting a contraception tablet entails scheduling, attending and paying for an appointment with a physician, getting a prescription after which touring to buy it at a pharmacy. However quickly, there shall be one other strategy to get the Tablet…and it gained’t contain a prescription.

Just lately, the Meals and Drug Administration (FDA) authorised Opill, a contraception tablet, to be offered over-the-counter. They authorised it with out age restrictions, which means it is going to be out there to teenagers. However how does it work? And extra importantly, how might it give you the results you want?

A Progestin-only Tablet

The Tablet is a hormonal contraceptive. It prevents ovulation (when an ovary releases an egg) and thickens the cervical mucus, making it more durable for sperm to get to an egg that has been launched. There are two forms of tablets: mixture tablets (which include the hormones estrogen and progestin) and progestin-only tablets (additionally known as a mini tablet). Opill is a progestin-only tablet.

Accessibility and Affordability

The plan is for Opill to be out there beginning in early 2024. The corporate behind it has mentioned they’re dedicated to creating it inexpensive.

By being the primary non-prescription oral contraceptive authorised by the FDA, Opill removes long-standing medical limitations. As an illustration, folks with out insurance coverage gained’t have to fret about going to see a well being care supplier and paying for a go to to get a prescription.

A number of states have already made hormonal contraceptives out there with a pharmacist’s prescription (versus a physician’s prescription), some no matter age. Opill is the primary one which shall be out there throughout the U.S. with none prescription wanted.

A Well being Care Go to Nonetheless Issues

Accessibility is superior, nevertheless it’s nonetheless a good suggestion to make an appointment together with your well being care supplier as wanted. Discussing contraceptive choices, medical historical past and any issues with a well being care skilled might help you make an informed alternative about whether or not Opill—or any contraception tablet—is best for you.

In case you’re contemplating OPill for causes apart from stopping unintended being pregnant, like managing menstrual cramps, a well being care supplier can present priceless sources and options.

Don’t Neglect!

The Tablet is 99 % efficient with good use. “Good use” means taking your tablet at across the identical time day-after-day. As a result of this doesn’t at all times occur, the effectiveness fee with “typical” use is nearer to 93 %.

Fearful about forgetting? “Behavior stacking” is a useful device you should use to make the Tablet part of your day by day routine! For instance, inserting it subsequent to your toothbrush, face wash or one thing else you already use day-after-day at across the identical time could make it simpler to recollect to take it.

Additionally essential to recollect is that the Tablet doesn’t shield in opposition to sexually transmitted infections (STIs)—you’ll want a barrier type of contraception for that. That is the place condoms are available in; pairing a condom and the Tablet is a good way to extend effectiveness and stop STIs.

We’ve Come a Lengthy Method

With federal pushbacks just like the overturning of Roe v. Wade, it’s essential that we rejoice this progress towards accessible and efficient reproductive care!