Birth control pills are not new. They have been available with a prescription for more than 50 years. What has changed is availability – with a new birth control pill now available for purchase online and at stores without a prescription.
Jean Fitzgerald, MD, obstetrician/gynecologist with Doylestown Health, says the easier access to birth control pills is groundbreaking for women.
“In my experience, women want to plan their pregnancies. Having highly effective, low (or no) cost and easily accessed options help each woman make and implement the best choice for her,” Dr. Fitzgerald says.
What is the Opill?
There are many types of birth control available, but the Opill is the only one available without a prescription. The FDA first approved the Opill, a progestin-based birth control pill, in 1973. It is 98% effective if taken as directed, at the same time each day.
The Opill and other progestin-based birth control pills are often referred to as the “minipill.” Each pill contains the same amount of progestin and all are active. The contraceptive works by creating a thick cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching an egg and thinning the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg.
According to Dr. Fitzgerald, most people will be able to take the Opill without a problem, but there are a few exceptions.
“People who have breast or other hormone-related cancers, liver diseases, unexplained vaginal bleeding or take anticonvulsants or other medications that could interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills may need to find an alternative to the Opill, or any oral contraceptive. In these instances, it is best that the patient discuss contraceptive options with her gynecologist” Dr. Fitzgerald says.
Like any oral contraceptive, the Opill has side effects. Some people may experience irregular menstrual bleeding, ovarian cysts, decreased libido, headache, acne and weight gain.
The Opill is not emergency contraception. If taken properly, it is effective within 48 hours of the first dose. The Opill also does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
Where you can get the Opill
You can purchase the Opill at most major retailers and pharmacies as well as online at Opill.com. You can find it in the family planning section of the store.
Over the counter birth control pills have a suggested retail price of $19.99 for a one-month supply, $49.99 for a three-month supply, and at Opill.com, a six-month supply is available for $89.99.
Is it safe to take the Opill without seeing my gynecologist?
Although you do not need to see a doctor to get a prescription for the Opill, Dr. Fitzgerald says you will still need to visit your gynecologist yearly for screenings and an overall physical. She also stresses the importance of counseling before you begin using any type of birth control pills.
“Your gynecologist is your best partner and advocate in determining what birth control options are best, most effective and safest for your needs and medical history.”
For more information about gynecology services available at Doylestown Health, visit Doylestownhealth.org/womenshealth
About Doylestown Health
Doylestown Health is a comprehensive healthcare system of inpatient, outpatient, and wellness education services connected to meet the health needs of the local and regional community. The flagship of Doylestown Health is Doylestown Hospital, a not-for-profit, community teaching hospital with 242 beds and a medical staff of more than 600 providers who deliver the highest quality care in over 50 specialties. Renowned locally, regionally, and nationally, Doylestown Hospital provides superior healthcare and offers advanced surgical procedures, innovative medical treatments, and comprehensive specialty services. Now in its 100th year of service in central Bucks County, Doylestown Hospital is proud to educate and train the next generation of physicians through its family medicine residency program. Consistently ranked among the best hospitals in Pennsylvania and distinguished in both infection prevention and patient experience, Doylestown Hospital is the only hospital in Pennsylvania to achieve 17 consecutive ‘A’ grades for patient safety from Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade. Learn more at doylestownhealth.org.
