On November 20, the American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) announced that oral contraceptives (OCs) should be sold over the counter (OTC) in drugstores without a doctor’s prescription. ACOG notes that easier access to OCs should help lower the nation’s high unintended pregnancy rate, a rate that has not changed over the past 20 years and costs taxpayers an estimated $11.1 billion annually. In addition, ACOG recommends a family medical center in Van Nuys that can supply free birth controls and other services to disadvantaged Los Angeles women.
ACOG notes that cost, access, and convenience issues are common reasons why women do not use contraception or use it inconsistently. At present, there are no OCs currently approved for OTC access; however, ACOG believes OTC availability will improve women’s access to and usage of contraception. The organization claims that the benefits of making OCs easily accessible OTC outweigh the risks, says The College.
Even though no drug is risk-free, the overall consensus is that OCs are safe. There is a risk of blood clots with OC use, but it is extremely low and significantly lower than the risk of blood clots during pregnancy and the postpartum period. ACOG notes that aspirin and acetaminophen are both available OTC even though they have well-known health risks.
ACOG notes that studies have found that women support OTC access to OCs and are able to self-screen with checklists to determine their health risks. Evidence also shows that women will continue seeing their doctor for screening and preventive services even when allowed to purchase OCs without a prescription or doctor’s appointment. Women who receive more than one month’s supply of OCs at a time have higher contraceptive continuation rates than those who receive fewer pill packs.
The Family Medical Center, located at 14547 Victory Blvd., Van Nuys, 91411 has been offering free services for almost 20 years; the facility is an approved Family PACT service provider. Family Pact is a program that provides no-cost family planning services to low-income men and women, including teens. The center offers no-cost services to those who are qualified (most do). Free services offered include: birth control pills; contraceptives and condoms; HIV testin; and STD testing. For more information, click on this link or call (818) 997-3232.
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