What is the best online service for the patch or the ring, not just pills?

That's a great question, as many online birth control services focus heavily on pills. However, there are excellent options available for the birth control patch (like Xulane or Twirla) and the vaginal ring (like NuvaRing, Annovera, or EluRyng).

Here are some of the best online services that can prescribe and often deliver the patch or the ring:

1. Nurx:

   • Why it's great: Nurx is one of the pioneers in online birth control and offers a very comprehensive range of options, including both the patch and the ring. You complete an online health assessment, a medical team reviews it, and if appropriate, they write a prescription and ship it directly to your door. They also handle insurance verification and can be a very convenient one-stop shop.
   • Offers: Patch, Ring, Pills, Emergency Contraception, STI testing, and other women's health services.

2. SimpleHealth:

   • Why it's great: Similar to Nurx, SimpleHealth provides an easy-to-use platform where you fill out a health questionnaire, have it reviewed by a doctor, and then receive your prescription for the patch or ring (or other methods) shipped to you. They are known for good customer service and aim to make birth control accessible and affordable.
   • Offers: Patch, Ring, Pills, Emergency Contraception.

3. Planned Parenthood Direct:

   • Why it's great: This is the online service offered by Planned Parenthood, a highly trusted name in reproductive health. They offer discreet and convenient online consultations and can prescribe the patch or the ring. You can often pick up your prescription at a local pharmacy or have it shipped to you, depending on your state and the service.
   • Offers: Patch, Ring, Pills, Emergency Contraception, UTI treatment, STI testing, and more. Their services are backed by the clinical expertise of Planned Parenthood.

4. Pandia Health:

   • Why it's great: Founded by a doctor, Pandia Health focuses on making birth control convenient. They can prescribe or transfer existing prescriptions for the patch, ring, or pills and deliver them directly to you with free shipping. They are particularly good for "never run out" refills.
   • Offers: Patch, Ring, Pills.

5. Hers (for Hims & Hers):

   • Why it's great: While part of a broader health platform, Hers offers women's health services, including online consultations for birth control. They can prescribe the patch, ring, or pills, and ship them to your door. Their platform is user-friendly and focuses on discreet delivery.
   • Offers: Patch, Ring, Pills, and other wellness products.

Important Considerations When Choosing a Service:

• State Availability: Not all services operate in every state. Check their website to ensure they serve your location.
• Insurance Coverage: Most of these services work with insurance, but it's wise to verify how your specific plan will cover the consultation and the medication. They usually offer options for those without insurance as well.
• Cost: Compare consultation fees (some are one-time, some are subscription-based) and the cost of the medication itself.
• Consultation Process: All will require you to fill out a detailed medical questionnaire, and some may include a video or phone consultation with a doctor or nurse practitioner. This is essential to ensure the patch or ring is safe and appropriate for you.
• Delivery: Check how quickly they deliver and if they offer auto-refills to prevent gaps in your birth control.

I recommend visiting the websites of a couple of these services (like Nurx and Planned Parenthood Direct) to compare their specific offerings, pricing, and the types of patch or ring they carry, to see which best fits your needs!