The Over-the-Counter Pill Project - Expanding Everyday Access to Birth Control
Birth control pills are already available over-the-counter (OTC) in more than 100 countries around the world, including in areas of the Sahel. Paradoxically, in the U.S., access to birth control options is more complicated than it should be. While a progesterone-only mini-pill (Opill) is now available OTC, regular birth control pills, preferred by 4 out of 5 oral contraceptive users, still require a prescription.
Although emergency contraception became available OTC in the U.S. more than 15 years ago, access remains uneven. Options are often locked behind cases, priced out of reach, or simply unavailable—barriers that continue to undermine timely access to essential reproductive health care.
The OTC Pill Project Is Working To Change This Picture
We’re supporting research efforts to make The Pill safely available without prescription and accessible in the same way you’d buy condoms—right off the shelf, no doctor or pharmacist required. In addition, we’re helping health care partners expand emergency contraception access to parts of the country that have limited or no locations that carry the product.
Why this work matters
• The US has one of the highest unintended pregnancy rates, ~42% or 2.2 Million per year
• Pharmacy closures are accelerating, especially in rural and low-income areas, which leaves19 Million US women of reproductive age living in “contraceptive deserts”
• With US FDA approval there will be an OTC ripple effect in other countries globally
One Goal: Expand Access To OTC Contraceptives
Emergency Contraception Access (Happening Now)
Donations help fill gaps in access by supporting local partners who provide emergency contraceptives to women in need and raise awareness of available services through community engagement.
The OTC Birth Control Pill (The Goal)
Support research that will make the more popular combination Birth Control Pill eligible for safe over-the-counter use. This includes clinical research, engagement with stakeholders and consumer education. This is the heavier lift—but one that will transform access for generations to come.
Help us bring reproductive autonomy within reach—everywhere, for everyone.
For more information, contact us at otcpillproject@oasissahel.org
