Opill, the FDA approved over-the-counter oral birth control, is now available in drug stores across the country, but for students in Corvallis, there are limited locations carrying the pill.

For most students, Opill adds to the number of accessible contraception options available but is not the only means, as Oregon State University Student Health also provides accessible and low-cost options. 

Opill, a progesterone only pill was announced in July 2023 as the first contraceptive to be available over-the-counter, meaning no prescription from a physician is required. The pill has now hit the market both online and in stores through the company’s site at $49.99 for three months, Amazon at $47.98 for three months and most Walgreens and CVS stores.

For Oregon State University students who are nearly 20 miles away from a CVS or Walgreens, Rice’s Pharmacy on Kings Blvd is selling the pill at $69.24 for a three month pack or $24.24 for one month. 

The Corvallis Rite Aid and grocery store pharmacies like FredMeyer and Safeway do not yet have the Opill brand in stock.

OSU students are not limited to just the Opill without a prescription, however, as OSU Student Health offers a range of contraception options through CCare, an Oregon Department of Human Services program, that allows students to access services for free within a certain income range. 

According to the Student Health CCare website, to qualify one must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status (up to CCare office discretion) and have a monthly income – that does not include parent income or financial aid – less than $3,038 or $4,109 for couples. Oregon Health Plan members are automatically enrolled. 

While CCare is not an over the counter method, the program does provide access a variety of contraception methods, a yearly exam, clinic visits and consultations and emergency contraception.

For those looking to sign up for CCare call 541-737-9140 to schedule a contraceptive consultation appointment.