What to know about Opill, the 1st over-the-counter birth control pill

In the coming weeks, Americans will be able to purchase Opill over the counter from places like CVS and Walgreens without a prescription.

The first over-the-counter birth control pill in the United States will soon be available for purchase. It’s called Opill, and a one-month supply will run about $19.99, while a three-month supply will cost about $49.99.

Opill is what's called a "minipill." These minipills only contain one type of hormone: progesterone. Their job is to make the cervical mucus thicker, stopping sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg. 

Minipills are different from the more popular combination pills, which contain both progesterone and estrogen. They work by preventing women from ovulating, which means no egg is released.

Minipills are considered to be safe for most people. They do not increase the risk of blood clots, a potential concern with combination pills. However, combination pills are more effective at preventing pregnancy – about 99% effective when used correctly. 

Opill is not that far behind at 98% effective, according to the manufacturer. It’s also important to take Opill at the same time every day for it to be that effective.