How to Get Birth Control Pills Without Insurance

Birth control pills can be obtained easily without insurance, but the cost may be high. Having health insurance can reduce the cost of the cervical exam that is performed once per year before a prescription for birth control is provided. Health insurance can also reduce the cost of the pills themselves. Women who don't have health insurance have a few resources that can help them reduce the cost of obtaining pills without insurance or paying exorbitant fees.

A woman is researching something on her tablet. (Image: champja/iStock/Getty Images)

Step 1

Contact a local birthing facility, women's clinic or Planned Parenthood. Planned Parenthood has a facility finder tool that locates the nearest office to you (see Resources).

Step 2

Ask the facility what the fees will be for a pelvic exam and the cost of birth control pills. Determine if these amounts are affordable. If they aren't, ask about any assistance plans the facility may offer. Some states have outreach programs that help women by paying for the costs associated with getting the pill. Planned Parenthood has income-based programs that reduce the costs, sometimes offering the pills and exam for free or for a minimal donation.

Step 3

Schedule the pelvic exam and fill the prescription given by the health care provider. the TeensHealth website points out that most pills cost between $15 and $50 a month, and a pelvic exam is usually required every 12 months in order to get a prescription.

Tip

Some birthing facilities allow a woman to pick up a pack of birth control pills every month for free or for a donation based on her financial information. The facility will evaluate her income and determine whether she can afford the cost of the exam or the cost of pills.