How to Get Birth Control in the United States
Birth control is an essential part of family planning and reproductive health. It allows individuals to control their fertility and plan their families according to their own needs and desires. In the United States, there are many different ways to obtain birth control, depending on individual circumstances and preferences.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Birth Control:
- Condoms: Male and female condoms are the only OTC birth control methods available in the United States. They are affordable, easily accessible, and protect against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Prescription Birth Control:
- Birth control pills: Oral contraceptive pills contain hormones that prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus to block sperm.
- Birth control patch: A small, thin patch that releases hormones through the skin, preventing ovulation.
- Birth control ring: A flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina and releases hormones to prevent ovulation.
- Birth control injection (Depo-Provera): A hormonal injection given every 3 months that prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus.
- Birth control implant (Nexplanon): A small rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm that releases hormones to prevent ovulation for up to 5 years.
- Intrauterine device (IUD): A small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus that releases hormones or copper to prevent fertilization or implantation.
Emergency Contraception:
- Plan B: A single-dose pill that can be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy.
- Ella: A single-dose pill that can be taken within 120 hours of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy.
How to Get a Prescription for Birth Control:
- Visit a healthcare provider: Make an appointment with a doctor, nurse practitioner, or health center staff.
- Discuss your options: Talk to your healthcare provider about the different types of birth control available and which one might be right for you.
- Get a prescription: If your healthcare provider recommends prescription birth control, they will write you a prescription that you can take to a pharmacy to fill.
Cost of Birth Control:
- OTC birth control: Condoms are generally affordable and can be purchased at most pharmacies, grocery stores, and convenience stores.
- Prescription birth control: The cost of prescription birth control varies depending on the method, insurance coverage, and pharmacy.
- Emergency contraception: Plan B and Ella are available over-the-counter without a prescription, but they can be more expensive than other birth control methods.
Insurance Coverage for Birth Control:
- Affordable Care Act (ACA): Most health insurance plans under the ACA are required to cover birth control without a copay or deductible.
- Medicaid: Medicaid provides free or low-cost birth control to eligible individuals.
- Other insurance plans: Some private insurance plans may also cover birth control, so it’s important to check with your insurer.
Where to Get Birth Control:
- Pharmacies: Most pharmacies sell OTC birth control and prescription birth control with a prescription.
- Health centers: Community health centers, Planned Parenthood, and other health centers offer birth control services, including prescription birth control and STI testing.
- Online pharmacies: Some online pharmacies, such as Amazon and PillPack, offer birth control with a prescription. However, it’s important to make sure that you use a reputable and safe online pharmacy.
Tips for Choosing the Right Birth Control:
- Consider your lifestyle and needs.
- Discuss your options with a healthcare provider.
- Be aware of the potential side effects of different methods.
- Make an informed decision based on the information you have.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Birth Control:
Q: Is birth control safe?
A: Birth control is generally safe and effective when used as directed. However, every method has its own potential side effects, so it’s important to discuss these with your healthcare provider.
Q: What is the most effective form of birth control?
A: The most effective forms of birth control are the intrauterine device (IUD) and Nexplanon implant. They are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Q: Can I get pregnant while on birth control?
A: Yes, it is possible to get pregnant while on birth control, but it is more likely to occur when a method is used incorrectly or inconsistently.
Q: Can I use birth control if I am breastfeeding?
A: Certain types of birth control, such as the progestin-only pill and IUD, are safe to use while breastfeeding.
Q: How do I dispose of birth control?
A: Most birth control methods have specific disposal instructions. Follow these instructions to ensure proper disposal.
Q: What should I do if I miss a birth control pill?
A: Depending on the type of pill you are taking, you may need to double up on your dose or use backup contraception until you are back on track.
Q: Where can I find a birth control clinic near me?
A: You can use the following resources to find a birth control clinic near you:
- Planned Parenthood: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/
- National Association of Community Health Centers: https://www.nachc.org/
- The Guttmacher Institute: https://www.guttmacher.org/
Conclusion:
Birth control is a powerful tool that allows individuals to control their fertility and plan their families. There are many different types of birth control available in the United States, and it’s important to choose the method that is right for you based on your lifestyle and needs. If you need help getting birth control, talk to your healthcare provider or visit a community health center. With the right birth control, you can protect yourself from pregnancy and STIs and live a healthy and fulfilling life.
