Increasing contraceptive access through over-the-counter birth control pills
In a historic move for reproductive health that could transform contraception access, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Opill, a progestin-only birth control pill (POP), for over-the-counter (OTC) use on July 13, 2023. This significant milestone comes after nearly 20 years of advocacy and research led by members of the Free the Pill coalition, comprised of over 200 reproductive health, rights, and justice organizations, research and advocacy groups, youth activists, health care providers, prominent medical and health professional associations, and others.
As we celebrate this victory, we must also ensure that this decision leads to improved access for everyone – regardless of background or income. To truly be accessible, OTC birth control pills must be priced affordably and covered by insurance. Free the Pill will continue our critical work to ensure everyone who wants to can walk into their local pharmacy and pick up a pack of birth control pills right off the shelf. We hope you’ll join us in building a more just and equitable future by making a donation in support of these efforts.
Free the Pill is a project of Ibis Reproductive Health, which seeks to advance sexual and reproductive autonomy, choices, and health worldwide. If you'd like your contribution to go toward all of Ibis's work, please donate here.
As a project of Ibis Reproductive Health, a 501(c)3 organization, all donations to Free the Pill are tax deductible. We appreciate your generosity.