Statement attributable to:
Jesse M. Ehrenfeld, M.D., M.P.H.
President, American Medical Association

“The FDA’s decision today approving over-the-counter birth control is a monumental step in providing broader access to safe and effective reproductive health care for millions of patients. At a time when reproductive health care services are becoming increasingly limited and reproductive health clinics are closing in several states, improving access to oral contraceptives is critically important to ensure patients can effectively limit unintended pregnancies and manage family planning.

“While we applaud this move, the AMA continues to urge the FDA and HHS to consider a variety of oral contraceptive options for over-the-counter use. It is important patients have options when choosing which type of birth control works best for them. We hope this is just the first of several to be approved, and we urge the FDA to consider applications from the full range of available oral contraceptives for over-the-counter access.”

“We must continue to remove barriers to affordable care for those in underserved, high-poverty, and rural communities. We know barriers to oral contraceptives can lead to inconsistent or discontinued use. While it is important patients maintain relationships with their physician to stay up to date on screenings, requiring an office visit to begin birth control is an unnecessary hurdle for patients who must take time off work, find childcare, and travel to appointments.

“The AMA remains committed to ensuring patients have access to the entire spectrum of reproductive health care services, including safe and affordable oral contraceptives. We look forward to continuing work with the FDA to support patients' right to access essential health care services.”