• Birth Control

How to Get Birth Control

Millions of women across the U.S. use birth control to prevent pregnancy. You can reach out to a healthcare provider for tips on the best birth control method to use. They can provide guidance and same-day prescriptions based on what they learn about you and your health history.

However, seeing a healthcare provider is not required for all types of birth control. There are OTC (over-the-counter) birth control methods available. Read on to learn more about your options and accessible methods of birth control.

How Does Birth Control Work?

Oral contraceptives prevent pregnancy but do not protect against STIs (sexually transmitted infections) and STDs like HIV. The most common type of birth control is the combination birth control pill. Combination birth control pills (COCs) use both progestin and estrogen to prevent ovulation. 

Progestin is a synthetic version of progesterone. Progesterone and estrogen prevent ovulation. They help thicken cervical mucus and alter the lining of the uterus to keep sperm from fertilizing an egg.

Progestin-only pills do not have estrogen, but can still thicken the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching an egg.

Besides preventing pregnancy, birth control can also be used to manage severe PMS symptoms, prevent ovarian cysts, treat endometriosis, and help with irregular periods.

Not every type of birth control works in the same way. Certain types of birth control require a prescription. This makes it easier for a healthcare provider to track any changes to your reproductive health while taking them. 

What Type of Birth Control Requires a Prescription?

While a physical exam is not required to receive birth control, a healthcare provider can perform a routine exam to help suggest the best type of birth control for you. Some healthcare providers may also perform a pelvic exam if requested.

The following types of birth control require a prescription from a healthcare provider:

• Certain types of birth control pills: Depending on the brand, some versions of the daily birth control pill are only available by prescription. The pill releases hormones to thicken the cervical mucus and prevent pregnancy.

• Birth control patch: The birth control patch is placed on the upper arm for 21 days to release estrogen and progesterone to prevent pregnancy.

• Vaginal ring: A vaginal ring is a soft right that releases estrogen and progesterone into the body to prevent pregnancy.

• IUD: A hormonal IUD and copper IUD are t-shaped forms of birth control inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years.

• Implant: An implant is inserted into the upper arm to disperse the hormones progestin and estrogen to prevent pregnancy.

• Cervical cap: A cervical cup is a small silicone cup that covers the cervix to prevent pregnancy.

• Diaphragm: This method of birth control creates a barrier over the cervix to prevent sperm from entering. A healthcare provider can fit one to the shape of your vagina.

• Tubal ligation: A surgical procedure that removes or clips the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy.

• Vasectomy: A vasectomy – also known as male sterilization – is a surgical procedure for men that cuts off the ends of the vas deferens to prevent sperm from reaching an egg.

What Birth Control Does Not Require a Prescription?

In 2023, the FDA officially approved the first daily birth control pill in the U.S. that does not require a prescription from a healthcare provider. The FDA requires that OTC birth control options can be used safely and effectively using the instructions on the label of the medication.

Opill is a progestin-only pill — also known as a mini pill — available at drug stores, convenience stores, grocery stores, and online. It’s most effective when taken at the same time daily.  You do not need a prescription or healthcare insurance to order Opill. 

Unlike hormonal birth control methods, Opill may be less effective in treating hormonal acne and other conditions related to hormonal imbalance. 

Barrier methods are types of birth control that prevent pregnancy by blocking sperm from having contact with the cervix. Barrier methods that do not require a prescription include:

• Condoms: Female and male condoms can protect you from pregnancy and STIs.

• Spermicides: One of the most affordable options for birth control. Spermicide is a liquid that spreads inside the vagina right before sex. However, spermicide may not be as effective as other barrier methods or hormonal birth control methods.

• Sponges: A contraceptive sponge is coated in spermicide before being inserted into the vagina to prevent pregnancy. Birth control sponges often have a loop attached to them for easy removal.

Can You Get Birth Control Over-The-Counter (OTC)?

Opill and other birth control pills are available for purchase online, at local pharmacies, family planning centers, and sexual health clinics. In some cases, a pharmacist can prescribe birth control to you.

Plan B One-Step and generic versions of this form of emergency contraceptive are available when regular birth control does not work. Emergency contraception should not be used consistently as a replacement for regular birth control.

What are the side effects of OTC birth control?

OTC birth control options like Opill have side effects similar to other types of birth control. One of the most common side effects of Opill is changes to the menstrual cycle.  

While taking Opill you may experience:

• Dizziness

• Nausea

• Abdominal pain

• Cramps

• Bloating

• Increased appetite

• Irregular spotting

• Lighter periods

Who should not take birth control?

Generally, birth control is safe for most people. Birth control can interact with certain medications. Some medications may reduce the effectiveness of birth control. Smoking tobacco can increase your risk of severe side effects like blood clots. 

Can you get pregnant while on birth control?

No method of birth control is 100% effective. It’s possible to become pregnant while on birth control if it’s used incorrectly or an accident occurs. Be sure to reach out to your healthcare provider if you believe you may have become pregnant. Birth control cannot prevent a pregnancy after it has occurred. 

A healthcare provider can help you figure out the next steps. It is more likely to become pregnant on OTC birth control because of the risk of human error. IUDs and implants are some of the most effective forms of birth control.

How long does it take to get pregnant after stopping birth control?

Most women can get pregnant soon after stopping any OTC birth control methods. It’s possible to get pregnant within the first few months to a year of being off of the pill.

Birth control is an effective tool for family planning. Besides tubal ligation and vasectomies, it’s relatively easy to stop taking birth control if you decide you want to get pregnant.

If you choose to use an IUD or implant, you can become pregnant as soon as a healthcare provider removes the device. With all forms of birth control, it may take a while for your menstrual cycle to return to normal.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

Be sure to contact a healthcare provider if you are experiencing severe symptoms after starting birth control. 

At LifeMD, you can speak with a licensed healthcare provider about what birth control option may be best for you based on your health and the options available in your area.

Book an appointment today to learn more about birth control options and tips for improving your overall health.

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