
FAQs
What is Opill®?
Opill® is a progestin-only daily oral contraceptive (birth control pill) that’s safe and effective when used as directed to help prevent pregnancy. It’s the only over-the-counter birth control pill available in the United States. Opill® helps prevent pregnancy in women and people who can become pregnant. It’s not an emergency contraceptive (morning after pill) and won’t prevent pregnancy when used after unprotected sex. It also doesn't protect against HIV/AIDS or other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Why should I use an over-the-counter birth control pill?
Opill® is a full prescription strength birth control pill that is more effective at preventing pregnancy than any other over-the-counter method available. You can find it in the family planning aisle of pharmacies, popular retail stores and online. This way, you can save time and avoid the inconvenience of visiting a doctor. According to a recent study, almost 1/3 of adult women who have tried to get a prescription or refill for a birth control pill, patch or ring have had trouble or were unable to get their next supply in time*. Opill® provides a hassle-free and convenient way to prevent unintended pregnancies.
Do I need a prescription for Opill®?
No, you don’t need a prescription from the doctor or pharmacist for Opill®. Opill® can be purchased over the counter, which means it can be found in the aisles of most major pharmacies nationwide and will be available online.
How does Opill® work?
Opill® works by thickening your cervical mucus, which helps to block sperm from getting to an egg. In addition, Opill® may prevent ovulation, but not in all cycles. You must take it at the same time every day to prevent pregnancy. Opill® is effective from 48 hours after you begin taking it, so make sure to use a barrier method during the first two days of starting the pill to prevent pregnancy, or if you miss or are late taking a pill.
Is Opill® the same as other birth control pills?
Opill® is a progestin-only birth control pill (sometimes referred to as POPs or the mini pill). Many birth control pills on the market contain a combination of estrogen and progestin. Opill® only contains one type of hormone (progestin) and is estrogen-free. Like all daily oral contraceptives, Opill® should be taken once a day, at the same time.
How is Opill® different than Plan B®?
Opill® is a birth control pill that is taken every day to prevent pregnancy. A morning after pill like Plan B® is only meant to be used within three days in cases of unprotected sex or if other methods of birth control fail and NOT as a regular form of birth control.
Will Opill® protect me against HIV/AIDS and other STDs?
Opill® does not protect against HIV/AIDS or other STDs. Only condoms can protect against STDs.
Where can I buy Opill®?
Opill® will be available in the aisles of most major pharmacies nationwide and will be available online.
*Grindlay, Kate, and Daniel Grossman. “Prescription Birth Control Access Among U.S. Women at Risk of Unintended Pregnancy.” Journal of Women's Health (2002) vol. 25,3 (2016): 249-54. doi:10.1089/jwh.2015.5312