Can I get emergency contraception delivered same day?

Yes, it's often possible to get emergency contraception (EC) delivered same-day, especially the most common over-the-counter (OTC) types. Here's how:

For Over-the-Counter EC (e.g., Plan B One-Step, Aftera, Take Action)

These forms of EC contain levonorgestrel and are available without a prescription. This makes them the easiest to get delivered quickly.

• Third-Party Delivery Services:

  • Instacart: You can order from participating pharmacies (like CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid), grocery stores, or even convenience stores that stock EC. Simply search for "emergency contraception" or "Plan B" in the app.
  • DoorDash: Many pharmacies, convenience stores, and sometimes even grocery stores are available for delivery through DoorDash.
  • Uber Eats: Similar to DoorDash, Uber Eats partners with pharmacies and retailers for same-day delivery of OTC medications.
  • GoPuff: Primarily a convenience store delivery service, GoPuff often carries EC and can deliver very quickly in many areas.

  Why these work: They treat EC like any other over-the-counter item. You place the order, and a shopper/driver picks it up from a nearby store and delivers it to you, often within an hour or two, depending on your location and store availability.

• Pharmacy-Specific Delivery:

  • CVS and Walgreens: Both often offer their own same-day delivery services for OTC items (sometimes via partners like Shipt or DoorDash, or their own couriers). Check their respective apps or websites.

Tips for OTC Delivery:

• Check availability: Ensure the specific product is in stock at a nearby store before ordering.
• Delivery fees: Be aware of delivery fees and potential surge pricing.
• Hours: Confirm the store and delivery service operating hours.

For Prescription EC (ella®)

Ella® (ulipristal acetate) is another type of EC that requires a prescription. It can be effective for a longer window (up to 5 days after unprotected sex) and may be more effective for individuals with a higher BMI. Getting this delivered same-day involves an extra step: getting the prescription.

1. Obtain a Prescription Quickly:

   • Telehealth Services:
     • Nurx: This service specializes in sexual health and reproductive care. You can have an online consultation with a provider who can prescribe ella® and often send the prescription to a local pharmacy for pickup, or sometimes offer mail-order (though mail-order wouldn't be same-day).
     • Planned Parenthood Direct (via app): In some states, you can get an online consultation and prescription for ella® through their app, which can then be sent to a local pharmacy.
     • Other Telehealth Providers: Many general telehealth platforms (e.g., Amwell, Teladoc, local urgent care apps) can provide a rapid consultation and prescription.
   • Urgent Care/Walk-in Clinic: If telehealth isn't an option, visiting an urgent care clinic can get you a prescription quickly.

2. Pharmacy Delivery (once you have the prescription):

   • Once you have the prescription (either sent electronically to your preferred pharmacy or you have a physical copy), you can then ask the pharmacy if they offer same-day prescription delivery.
   • Local Pharmacies: Many independent and chain pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid) offer local prescription delivery, sometimes for a fee. Call your chosen pharmacy directly to inquire.
   • Third-Party Prescription Delivery: In some areas, services like ScriptDrop or Instacart (for prescriptions) can facilitate delivery, though this might be less common for urgent same-day needs compared to OTC.

Why ella® delivery is harder for "same-day": The main hurdle is the prescription requirement. While telehealth can be fast, coordinating the prescription send, pharmacy processing, and then same-day delivery can take more time than simply ordering an OTC product.

Important Considerations:

• Time is critical: EC is most effective the sooner you take it. Prioritize getting it as quickly as possible.
• Cost: Prices for EC vary (from around $10-$50 for OTC, more for ella®), and delivery fees will apply. Some insurance plans cover EC, but usually only with a prescription.
• Call ahead: If unsure, call your local pharmacy or the delivery service's customer support to confirm availability and delivery times.
• Backup Plan: If same-day delivery isn't feasible or fast enough, your quickest option might be to pick it up in person from a local pharmacy or convenience store.

In summary, for the fastest same-day delivery, your best bet is to use Instacart, DoorDash, Uber Eats, or GoPuff to order an over-the-counter (levonorgestrel-based) emergency contraception from a local pharmacy or convenience store.