While not all birth control methods can be prescribed and dispensed online, many popular options are.
The most common birth control methods that can be obtained through telehealth include:
- The pill
- The patch
- The ring
- The shot (in some cases, depending on the clinic and your history)
These methods are often eligible for telehealth because they generally don’t require a physical exam or invasive procedure to prescribe. For the shot, some clinics may require an initial in-person visit for the first injection, but follow-up shots can sometimes be administered through telehealth with a prescription.
What to Expect When Getting Birth Control Online
The process for obtaining birth control online is usually straightforward:
- Online Consultation: You'll start by filling out a health questionnaire online. This will ask about your medical history, lifestyle, and preferences for birth control.
- Telehealth Visit: You’ll then have a virtual appointment with a healthcare provider (like a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant). They will review your questionnaire, ask follow-up questions, and discuss your birth control options.
- Prescription: If you’re deemed a good candidate for telehealth birth control, the provider will electronically send a prescription to a pharmacy or a specialty telehealth pharmacy.
- Delivery: Your birth control will be mailed directly to your home. Many telehealth services offer discreet packaging and fast shipping, sometimes even same-day delivery.
Birth Control Screening and What Needs In-Person Care
While telehealth makes getting birth control more accessible, there are still certain situations where an in-person visit is necessary:
- Initial STI Screening: If you’ve never been tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) before, or if it’s been a while, your provider may require an in-person visit for testing. Some telehealth providers might offer at-home STI testing kits.
- Certain Medical Conditions: If you have specific pre-existing medical conditions (like high blood pressure, a history of blood clots, or certain types of cancer), your provider may prefer to see you in person to ensure your safety and the best treatment plan.
- Estrogen Screening: While many telehealth services prescribe estrogen-containing birth control pills, patches, or rings, they will still screen you for contraindications to estrogen during your virtual visit. This screening typically involves asking detailed questions about your medical history and current health. If you have certain risk factors, an in-person consultation might be recommended.
- IUDs and Implants: Procedures to insert or remove intrauterine devices (IUDs) or contraceptive implants require an in-person visit.
- Annual Exams: While you can get prescriptions for birth control via telehealth, it's still recommended to have an annual physical exam with your regular healthcare provider to discuss your overall health.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Birth Control Options
In addition to prescription methods, there are also over-the-counter (OTC) birth control options becoming available:
- Emergency Contraception: Pills like Plan B and ella are available over-the-counter at most pharmacies without a prescription. Some telehealth services can also prescribe these if you need them urgently.
- Condoms and Spermicides: These barrier methods are widely available without a prescription in pharmacies and other retail stores.
Telehealth has significantly improved access to contraception, making it easier and more convenient for many people to manage their reproductive health. Always discuss your specific needs and any concerns with a healthcare provider, whether in-person or via telehealth.
