Free Prescription Contraceptives in British Columbia

As of April 1st, British Columbia’s PharmaCare program is extending its coverage to include many prescription contraceptives. This expansion in coverage ensures that individuals have access to essential family planning options to make informed choices regarding their reproductive health. By removing financial barriers and increasing access to prescription contraceptives, British Columbia’s PharmaCare program is taking a significant step toward creating a healthier and more equitable society for all residents.

This article will provide an in-depth overview of the prescription contraceptives that PharmaCare covers and explain how BC residents can access these benefits at most community pharmacies.

I. Importance of Contraceptives

Contraceptives play a crucial role in enabling individuals and couples to make informed decisions about their reproductive health. The primary reasons for contraceptive use include:

• Preventing unintended pregnancies: Contraceptives provide a reliable means of family planning, allowing people to space out their children or delay having children until they are ready.
• Reducing health risks: By preventing unintended pregnancies, contraceptives can help reduce maternal and infant health risks associated with closely spaced or high-risk pregnancies.
• Empowering individuals: Contraceptives provide individuals, particularly women, with greater control over their reproductive choices and bodies, which can lead to improved health outcomes and socioeconomic advancements.

II. Types of Prescription Contraceptives

PharmaCare covers a wide range of prescription contraceptives for eligible British Columbia residents, ensuring that individuals have access to various options that best suit their needs. The covered prescription contraceptives include:

Oral Contraceptives (Birth Control Pills)
Combination pills contain both estrogen and progestin, while progestin-only pills, or “mini-pills,” contain only progestin.

Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
Hormonal IUDs release a small amount of progestin, while copper IUDs are hormone-free and use copper as a spermicide.

Injectable Contraceptives
Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA; also known as Depo-Provera) injections are administered every 12 weeks.

Contraceptive Implants
Small, flexible rods inserted under the skin that release a steady dose of progestin.

Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs or Morning After Pills)
Levonorgestrel-based ECPs can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected intercourse, while ulipristal acetate-based ECPs can be taken up to 120 hours after unprotected intercourse.

III. Accessing Contraceptives through PharmaCare

To access the benefits of PharmaCare’s prescription contraceptive coverage, follow these steps:

1. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable contraceptive method for your needs, taking into account your medical history, lifestyle, and preferences.
2. Obtain a prescription from your healthcare provider for the chosen contraceptive method.
3. Visit a community pharmacy participating in the PharmaCare program with your prescription and your BC Services Card

To learn more about British Columbia’s contraceptive program, click here.