OTC availability of birth control pills on the horizon?


The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists have released statement promoting over the counter availability of oral contraceptives. Citing "cost, access, and convenience" as barriers to consistent use of birth-control pills, the ACOG believes these challenges could be reduced by making the pills available without a prescription, thereby reducing the numbers of accidental pregnancies.  Known side effects and risks are less than those of pregnancy, postpartum or other OTC medications.  The price barrier may prove to be a more difficult challenge to overcome, as OTC medications are not covered under most healthcare plans.  Unfortunately,  as we have seen in the past months, coverage for oral contraceptives is challenged by conservative corporations and politicians alike, so increased accessibility could promote competitive market price control and benefit there as well.  

For the ACOG press release, please visit http://www.acog.org/About_ACOG/News_Room/News_Releases/2012/Ob-Gyns_Want_the_Pill_Available_OTC

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