Over-the-counter oral contraceptive use and initiation of contraception

JAMA Network Open

2025-08-18

(Press-News.org) About The Study: In this cross-sectional study of U.S. individuals obtaining oral contraception, the oral contraceptive pill was accessed over-the-counter (OTC) by many who previously used no method or less-effective contraception. These findings suggest that OTC access may improve equitable access to contraception.

Corresponding Author: To contact the corresponding author, Maria I. Rodriguez, M.D., M.P.H., email rodrigma@ohsu.edu.

To access the embargoed study: Visit our For The Media website at this link https://media.jamanetwork.com/

(doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.27438)

Editor’s Note: Please see the article for additional information, including other authors, author contributions and affiliations, conflict of interest and financial disclosures, and funding and support.

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About JAMA Network Open: JAMA Network Open is an online-only open access general medical journal from the JAMA Network. On weekdays, the journal publishes peer-reviewed clinical research and commentary in more than 40 medical and health subject areas. Every article is free online from the day of publication.

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