A national study published in JAMA Network Open found that allowing over-the-counter (OTC) access to progestin-only oral contraceptives led to a significant increase in contraceptive use, with initiation rates rising by 32 percentage points among nonusers and switching rates by 41 percentage points from less-effective methods. Among the 986 participants aged 15 to 45, those opting for OTC access were often uninsured, younger, and more likely to report previous pregnancies. The research suggests that OTC availability may provide an important alternative for those facing barriers to contraceptive care following recent legal changes regarding reproductive rights.

Source: JAMA Network Open