How much does online birth control cost per month without insurance?

The cost of birth control without insurance can vary quite a bit depending on the method you choose and where you get it. Here's a general breakdown of what you might expect per month for some common options purchased online or through online providers:

• The Pill: This is one of the most common and generally the most affordable. Without insurance, you can expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $50 per month.

  • Brands to consider (often available generically for lower cost):
    • Nurx: Nurx is a popular online platform that offers a wide variety of birth control pills. They often have a tiered pricing structure where you can find options as low as $15/month, plus a consultation fee.
    • Clystix: Clystix is another online pharmacy that can provide birth control pills. Prices can be competitive, often falling in the $20-$40 range depending on the specific pill.
    • Hims & Hers: While often known for other services, Hims (for men) and Hers (for women) also offer birth control. Their pricing for pills can be around $20-$30 per month, plus a consultation fee.

• The Patch: The birth control patch is typically a bit more expensive than the pill. Without insurance, expect to pay around $50 to $70 per month.

  • Brands to consider:
    • Xulane: This is a common brand name for the patch. Online pharmacies may carry this or generic versions.
    • Nurx: Nurx also offers the birth control patch, and their pricing will reflect the cost of the patch itself plus their service fees.

• The Ring (Vaginal Ring): Similar to the patch, the ring can cost around $50 to $70 per month.

  • Brands to consider:
    • Annovera: This is a reusable vaginal ring that lasts for a full year, so while the upfront cost is higher (around $200-$250 for the year), it averages out to about $20-$25 per month. This can be a good option for long-term savings if you can afford the initial investment.
    • NuvaRing: This is another common brand. Online pharmacies will likely carry NuvaRing or generic equivalents.

• The Shot (Injection): The birth control shot (like Depo-Provera) is usually given every three months. When purchased online without insurance, the cost per shot can range from $30 to $70 per dose. This means the monthly cost would be roughly $10 to $23.

  • Note: While you can order the prescription online, you often need to pick up the actual injection at a pharmacy or have it administered by a healthcare professional. Some telehealth services might connect you with local clinics.

• The Implant (IUD, Nexplanon): These are long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) and have a much higher upfront cost, but are the most cost-effective over time. Without insurance, an implant can cost anywhere from $500 to $1000+. This means the monthly cost would be very low, around $10-$20 per month if you spread it out over the 3-5 years it lasts.

  • Note: These require an in-person procedure for insertion and removal, so while you might consult online, you'll need to go to a clinic.

• The Shot (Internal - available at some clinics): While not typically bought online for home use in the same way as pills, some clinics that offer online consultations may have lower cash prices for the injection itself.

Important Considerations When Buying Online:

• Consultation Fees: Most online birth control providers will charge a consultation fee, which can range from $15 to $50. This is often a one-time fee or an annual fee.
• Shipping Fees: Factor in potential shipping costs.
• Prescription Required: You will always need a prescription for birth control, and online providers will facilitate this through a consultation with a licensed healthcare professional.
• Generic vs. Brand Name: Generic versions of birth control pills are usually significantly cheaper than brand-name versions.
• Bulk Purchasing: Some services offer discounts if you purchase a 3-month or 6-month supply.
• Telehealth Services: Many telehealth platforms are specifically designed to make birth control accessible and affordable without insurance. Look into services like Planned Parenthood Direct (app-based), Lemonaid Health, or Pandia Health.

Where to Look for Online Birth Control Without Insurance:

• Nurx: Excellent for a wide range of methods, including pills, patches, and rings, with transparent pricing.
• Hers: Offers a good selection of pills and other methods.
• Pandia Health: Focuses specifically on birth control delivery and offers personalized service, with options for various methods.
• Lemonaid Health: Provides a straightforward process for getting prescriptions and delivery for birth control pills.
• Planned Parenthood Direct App: This app allows you to order birth control pills, patches, and rings for delivery if you've had a prescription filled at Planned Parenthood in the last two years or live in a participating state.

When you're looking for birth control online, it's always best to compare prices across a few different platforms and be aware of all the associated fees.