Opill is the first nonprescription daily oral contraceptive pill offered to the public. The FDA approved the drug on July 13th, 2023, and claims it’s safe and available for anyone who has started menstruation, including teenagers. The pill itself only contains the hormone progestin and is completely estrogen-free. Progestin is a synthetic form of progesterone, and it can be used as birth control as well as treatment for menstrual medical conditions. This is a great option for individuals who are unable to take other birth control containing estrogen. Opill starts working 48 hours after the first dose is taken, and it prevents pregnancy by thickening the cervical mucus to prevent sperm mobility. It also prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs in some cycles. Opill is 98% effective at preventing pregnancy with perfect use, but for the average person, it’s 91% effective with typical use. Some medications can lower the effectiveness of Opill if taken together. Common side effects of Opill include unexpected vaginal bleeding or spotting, acne, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, bloating, and change in appetite. Overall, the introduction of this medication is positive as it can help prevent teen pregnancy and gives an option to those who do not have health insurance.
https://opill.com/pages/about-opill
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/opill-is-this-new-birth-control-pill-right-for-you-202311082989
