Study Finds Over-the-Counter Contraceptive Pills Significantly Improve Access to Birth Control

In August 2025, a landmark study published in JAMA Network Open highlights the positive impact of over-the-counter (OTC) contraceptive pills on reproductive healthcare access in the United States. The research, conducted by Oregon Health & Science University, indicates that allowing the sale of birth control pills without a prescription has dramatically widened access, especially for populations facing significant barriers such as lack of insurance, rural residents, adolescents, and minority groups.

Since the FDA approved OTC sales of a birth control pill two years prior, the study surveyed 986 individuals across 44 states who purchased the pill either online or at pharmacies, comparing their outcomes to those using prescription-based contraception. The findings reveal a 31.8 percentage point increase in contraceptive use among people who previously did not use any method, showcasing that OTC availability is successfully reaching those in greatest need.

The majority of OTC users were either not using contraception or relying on less effective methods, emphasizing the importance of access to reliable birth control for pregnancy prevention. Lead researcher Dr. Maria Rodriguez emphasized that OTC pills are serving people who face the most obstacles in healthcare access, including racial and ethnic minorities, teens, the uninsured, and Medicaid recipients.

Importantly, the study underscores that OTC contraceptives are a cost-effective option, with a three-month supply costing around $50, making it an affordable choice for many. The researchers advocate for the removal of prescription requirements, arguing it would particularly benefit underserved communities and rural populations, thereby fostering greater reproductive autonomy.

In the context of increasing risks associated with pregnancy and the recent Supreme Court decision that limits access to abortion, OTC contraception emerges as a vital tool to reduce disparities and support reproductive rights. These findings highlight that over-the-counter birth control can play a crucial role in addressing the healthcare gap and empowering individuals to make autonomous reproductive choices.

Source: Medical Xpress