The stress of covering the cost can be an added burden.
But if you’re sexually active, it’s important to adopt a birth control method toavoid unwanted pregnancy.
Cost doesn’t have to be a barrier to access, particularly if you have insurance.
Illustration by Joules Garcia for Verywell Health
Illustration by Joules Garcia for Verywell Health
Can You Get Free Birth Control?
Some states have laws that make it easy and convenient for women to get free birth control.
In other states it can be more challenging, but it is possible.
They can be inserted for several years and removed at any time a woman wants to conceive.
Implants are inserted into the upper arm and can stay in place for up to three years.
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods of birth control block sperm from entering a uterus and reaching an egg.
Permanent Birth Control
There are permanent birth control options for men and women.
For people assigned male at birth, a surgical procedure called avasectomyis performed.
Ultimately, the “right” method of birth control is the one you use consistently.
Some states allow minors to provide consent to obtain birth control without any conditions.
A few states don’t have any specific laws about this at all.
Check out the laws in your state to learn about consent for birth control.
Another important factor to consider is how birth control will affect your body.
Different types of birth control are not recommended for people with certain health conditions.
Others can decrease in effectiveness depending on whether you have been pregnant before.
Getting an idea of what your insurance plan covers is another important consideration.
Be aware that some states allow employers with religious affiliations not to cover birth control.
Opill is the first and only birth control pill available without a prescription.
Finding Coupons
Coupons to help with the cost of birth control are also available online.
GoodRxis a reputable site that offers coupons for free.
Your local pharmacy is another great resource to tap into.
Ask your pharmacist about any coupons or rebates that are available.
Some patients write down questions before the visit to help them remember.
You don’t have to have a primary care physician to take advantage of telehealth.
Online birth control delivery services have become very common.
The Affordable Care Act provides benefits for free birth control.
Every person deserves fair access to birth control, regardless of income.
Choosing birth control is a personal decision.
It’s important to consider your lifestyle, health history, sexual habits, and budget.
If you have access to a healthcare provider, discuss your various options with them.
Healthcare.gov.Affordable care act (Aca).
UpToDate, Kaunitz AM.Patient education: Barrier and pericoital methods of birth control (beyond the basics).
Planned Parenthood.How does the copper IUD work as emergency contraception?
Planned Parenthood.Which kind of emergency contraception should I use?
Guttmacher Institute.Minors access to contraceptive services.
HealthCare.gov.Birth control benefits and reproductive health care options in the Health Insurance Marketplace.
National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations.Pharmacist prescribing hormonal contraceptives.
American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.Do I need to have a pelvic exam to get birth control?
Shufelt C, LeVee A.Hormonal contraception in women with hypertension.JAMA.
2021;104(3):254-261. doi:10.1016/j.contraception.2021.04.006
