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No, OTC birth control should not be for sale
While the idea of selling birth control over the counter may sound like a good idea, there are many potential health risks. Making birth control available over the counter may actually lead to more unwanted pregnancies, as well as other health risks. No drug is risk free, and women should consult a medical professional before taking any form of birth control.
Supporting arguments · 3
- Birth control raises the number of unwanted and teen pregnanciesHealth professionals are concerned that instead of reducing the number of unwanted pregnancies, making birth control available over the counter would actually increase the number, especially in teen populations. Birth control is not always effective, and making it available over the counter would be irresponsible.
- Birth control raises the cost of the drugsWhen Plan B emergency contraceptive was made available over the counter, the generic brand name cost went from around $5 to roughly $40. By making birth control available over the counter, it would no longer be covered by health insurance. Women would have to pay out of pocket for their birth control, essentially making it more expensive.
- Birth control increases health risksThough birth control protects women from unwanted pregnancies, it is not effective against sexually transmitted diseases. Making birth control accessible over the counter would decrease the use of condoms, and increase the spread of STDs. Women would also be less likely to visit their OB/GYN for yearly annual check-ups.