The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has officially endorsed the selling of birth control pills over the counter.
According to a story in the Palm Beach Post, women’s health advocates are arguing the pros and cons of the policy, which would have to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
On the one hand, some advocates say, over-the-counter sales would make birth control more readily available. But others argue that the policy could present health risks.
The story notes that oral contraceptives are linked with a higher risk of blood clots, as is pregnancy itself. While all birth control pills can increase the risk of clots, a number of studies indicate that pills with the synthetic hormone drospirenone can increase that risk up to three times compared to other oral contraceptives on the market.
Pills with drospirenone include Yasmin, Yaz, Beyaz and Ocella.
According to the article, some women’s health advocates are concerned that women who are at a higher risk of blood clots and should not use certain oral contraceptives — such as those over age 35 who smoke or who have a specific health condition — would not get the benefit of counseling from a doctor before getting their pills.
That ACOG, which has 56,000 members, is the nation’s largest organization of obstetricians and gynecologists, the article says.
Patients should consult their doctors before making any changes in their medication. A consultation with a Beyaz lawyer is also important if there are significant injuries while on Beyaz or similar birth control pills.
See the article here:
