How to Renew Birth Control Online
How to Renew Your Birth Control Prescription Online: A Guide for Ontario Women
Yes, you can renew your birth control prescription online in Ontario! Virtual healthcare services make it easier than ever to stay on top of your contraception without the hassle of booking in-person appointments.
How it works
Getting your birth control prescription renewed online is straightforward. You'll connect with a licensed healthcare provider through a virtual platform who can assess your current prescription and health status. During your consultation, they'll review your medical history, discuss how your current method is working for you, and address any concerns or side effects you might be experiencing.
The provider will ask about your current birth control method, how long you've been using it, and whether you've had any issues. They'll also check if there have been any changes to your health or medications that might affect your prescription. If everything looks good, they can send a new prescription directly to your pharmacy of choice.
Most online consultations for birth control renewals take just a few minutes. You'll typically receive your prescription the same day, and some services can even arrange for your medication to be delivered to your door.
What you'll need
- Your current birth control prescription or packaging
- A list of any other medications you're taking
- Your health card number
- Your preferred pharmacy information
Coverage and costs
Birth control prescriptions renewed online are covered by OHIP just like in-person visits. You'll only pay for the medication itself, which may be covered by your extended health benefits. Some virtual healthcare platforms charge a small consultation fee, but many are free for Ontario residents.
If you're using a service like Arlo, there's no charge for the consultation, and providers can prescribe all types of hormonal birth control including the pill, patch, and ring.
Common questions
Can I switch birth control types during an online consultation? Absolutely. Online providers can discuss different options with you and prescribe a new method if your current one isn't working well. They'll make sure the new option is safe and appropriate for your health profile.
What if I haven't had a recent Pap test? For most birth control renewals, you don't need a current Pap test. However, the provider might recommend scheduling one if you're due, especially if you haven't had routine gynecological care recently.
How far in advance should I renew? It's smart to request a renewal when you have about a month's supply left. This gives you time to pick up your prescription and ensures you don't have any gaps in coverage.
The takeaway
Online birth control renewals are convenient, covered by OHIP, and just as safe as in-person visits. You can stay consistent with your contraception without disrupting your busy schedule.
You can always text Arlo and talk to a provider in 5 minutes!
References
- [Birth Control Options - Ontario.ca](https://www.ontario.ca/page/birth-control-options)
- [Contraception - Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada](https://www.sogc.org/en/content/featured/contraception.aspx)
- [Sexual and Reproductive Health - College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario](https://www.cpso.on.ca/en/Physicians/Policies-Guidance/Policies/Sexual-and-Reproductive-Health)