Contraception, also known as birth control, is a method or device used to prevent pregnancy. There are many different types of contraception available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Cost of Different Types of Contraception
The cost of contraception can vary depending on the type of contraception, the brand, the pharmacy, and the insurance coverage.
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Hormonal Contraception: Hormonal contraception is typically available by prescription only. The cost of hormonal contraception can vary depending on the type of contraception, the brand, and the pharmacy.
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The Pill: The pill is a hormonal contraceptive that is taken orally. It is available in two types: the combined pill and the progestin-only pill. The combined pill typically costs between $15 and $50 per month. The progestin-only pill typically costs between $10 and $30 per month.
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The Patch: The patch is a hormonal contraceptive that is applied to the skin once a week. It typically costs between $30 and $50 per month.
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The Ring: The ring is a hormonal contraceptive that is inserted into the vagina once a month. It typically costs between $25 and $40 per month.
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The Shot: The shot is a hormonal contraceptive that is injected into the muscle of the upper arm every three months. It typically costs between $150 and $200 per injection.
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The Implant: The implant is a hormonal contraceptive that is inserted under the skin of the upper arm. It typically costs between $700 and $900 for the implant and insertion.
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Barrier Contraception: Barrier contraception is typically available over-the-counter. The cost of barrier contraception can vary depending on the type of contraception and the brand.
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Condoms: Condoms are thin, sheaths that are placed over the penis before sexual intercourse. They typically cost between $0.50 and $2 per condom.
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Diaphragms: Diaphragms are dome-shaped devices that are inserted into the vagina before sexual intercourse. They typically cost between $20 and $60.
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Spermicide: Spermicide is a chemical that kills sperm. It is available in a variety of forms, including creams, foams, and gels. Spermicide typically costs between $3 and $10 per tube or can.
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Other Types of Contraception: Other types of contraception, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and emergency contraception, are typically available by prescription only. The cost of these types of contraception can vary depending on the type of contraception, the brand, and the pharmacy.
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IUDs: IUDs are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus by a doctor. They typically cost between $500 and $1,000.
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Emergency Contraception: Emergency contraception is taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. It is most effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. Emergency contraception typically costs between $15 and $50.
Insurance Coverage
In the United States, the Affordable Care Act requires most health insurance plans to cover birth control with no out-of-pocket costs for the patient. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, some health insurance plans may not cover certain types of birth control, such as emergency contraception.
Cost-Saving Tips
There are a few things you can do to save money on contraception:
- Ask your doctor about generic brands. Generic brands of birth control are often less expensive than brand-name birth control.
- Get your birth control from a pharmacy that offers discounts. Some pharmacies offer discounts on birth control to patients who pay cash.
- Use a discount card. There are a number of discount cards available that can help you save money on birth control.
- Ask your doctor about free or low-cost birth control programs. There are a number of free or low-cost birth control programs available to low-income women.
Conclusion
The cost of contraception can vary depending on the type of contraception, the brand, the pharmacy, and the insurance coverage. However, there are a few things you can do to save money on contraception. If you are concerned about the cost of contraception, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They can help you find the most affordable option for you.
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