Do You Actually Need a Prescription for Afterpill?

Here's the good news: Afterpill (Levonorgestrel 1.5 mg) is available over the counter (OTC) to people of all ages without a prescription or ID. You can buy it at most pharmacies or order it online through AfterPill.com.

So why would you need a doctor at all? There are several important reasons a prescription can still be valuable — and in some cases, necessary.

When You Might Need a Prescription for Afterpill

While you can purchase Levonorgestrel emergency contraceptives without a prescription, there are situations where seeing a provider makes sense:

• Insurance coverage: Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most insurance plans must cover emergency contraception without cost-sharing when obtained with a prescription. Without one, your OTC purchase may not be reimbursed.
• Cost savings: A prescription can bring your out-of-pocket cost to $0 with insurance, compared to $20–$50 at the pharmacy counter.
• Weight considerations: Afterpill's efficacy may be reduced in individuals weighing over 165 lbs (75 kg) and may not be effective over 195 lbs (88 kg). A doctor can discuss whether alternatives like Ella (Ulipristal Acetate) or a copper IUD might be more appropriate.
• Drug interactions: If you take medications like Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Rifampin, or St. John's Wort, these can reduce Afterpill's effectiveness. A provider can help you navigate potential drug interactions.
• Advance provision: Some people prefer to have a prescription on file so they can fill it quickly if the need arises.

Which Types of Doctors Can Prescribe Afterpill?

Multiple types of healthcare providers can write a prescription for Afterpill or other Levonorgestrel emergency contraceptives:

• OB/GYN (Obstetrician-Gynecologist): Specialists in reproductive health who routinely prescribe emergency contraception.
• Family Medicine physicians: Your primary care doctor can prescribe Afterpill during a regular visit.
• Internal Medicine physicians: Internists can also write prescriptions for emergency contraception.
• Pediatricians (Adolescent Medicine): For teens, pediatricians specializing in adolescent health can prescribe and counsel on emergency contraception.
• Emergency Medicine physicians: ER doctors can prescribe Afterpill if you seek emergency care.
• Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants: In most states, NPs and PAs have prescribing authority for emergency contraception.
• Pharmacists: In some states, pharmacists can prescribe or dispense emergency contraception through collaborative practice agreements.

How to Find a Provider Near You

Finding the right provider doesn't have to be complicated. Here are the most efficient approaches:

1. Use MedFinder

The fastest way to connect with a provider who can help with Afterpill is through MedFinder. You can search for providers and pharmacies in your area that have experience with emergency contraception.

2. Contact Your Primary Care Doctor

If you have an established relationship with a family medicine doctor or internist, call their office. Many can provide a prescription the same day, sometimes over the phone.

3. Visit a Community Health Center

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and Title X clinics provide reproductive health services on a sliding fee scale. Find one through HRSA's locator.

4. Planned Parenthood

Planned Parenthood health centers offer emergency contraception services, often at reduced cost or free. They can also help you explore which option is best for your situation.

5. Urgent Care Clinics

Many urgent care facilities can prescribe Afterpill. This can be a good option on evenings and weekends when your regular doctor isn't available.

Telehealth Options for Afterpill Prescriptions

Telehealth has made it significantly easier to get a prescription for emergency contraception. Several platforms offer same-day virtual visits:

• Telehealth apps: Many major telehealth platforms (such as MDLIVE, Teladoc, and Amwell) can connect you with a provider who can write a prescription.
• Planned Parenthood Direct: Offers telehealth visits for emergency contraception in many states.
• Your insurance's telehealth benefit: Check if your health plan includes virtual visits — this may be the most affordable option.

A telehealth visit is especially useful if you need a prescription for insurance coverage but don't have time for an in-person appointment.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Getting a prescription for Afterpill is typically straightforward. Here's what to expect:

1. Brief medical history: The provider will ask about your last menstrual period, current medications, and any allergies.
2. Weight discussion: Since efficacy can be affected by body weight, your provider may discuss whether Afterpill or an alternative is best.
3. Timing matters: Afterpill is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours (3 days). Let your provider know the timeframe.
4. Prescription sent to pharmacy: In most cases, the prescription can be sent electronically to your pharmacy of choice.

The appointment is usually quick — often 10–15 minutes — and providers are accustomed to these requests.

What If You Can't Afford a Doctor Visit?

Cost shouldn't prevent you from getting emergency contraception. Consider these options:

• Buy OTC without a prescription: Afterpill is available through AfterPill.com for approximately $20 plus $5 shipping — significantly less than the $40–$50 retail price at most pharmacies.
• Community health centers: Offer sliding-scale fees based on your ability to pay.
• Planned Parenthood: Often provides emergency contraception at reduced cost or free.
• Title X clinics: Federally funded clinics that offer free or low-cost reproductive health services.

For more ways to reduce costs, see our guide on how to save money on Afterpill.

Tips for Getting Your Prescription Filled Quickly

Time is critical with emergency contraception. Here are tips to speed up the process:

• Ask for electronic prescribing: E-prescriptions arrive at the pharmacy almost instantly.
• Call ahead: Confirm the pharmacy has Levonorgestrel in stock before heading there. Or use our guide on how to check pharmacy stock without calling.
• Consider mail-order in advance: Order Afterpill through AfterPill.com before you need it, so it's already in your medicine cabinet.
• Know your backup options: If one pharmacy is out, check our guide to finding Afterpill in stock for tools and tips.

Understanding Afterpill's Limitations

It's important to be aware of factors that may affect whether Afterpill is the right choice for you:

• Time window: Most effective within 24 hours, still effective up to 72 hours, with some evidence of benefit up to 120 hours (though Ella is preferred after 72 hours).
• Weight: Efficacy may decrease above 165 lbs. Discuss alternatives with your provider.
• Not for routine use: Afterpill is designed for emergency situations, not as a regular form of birth control.
• Does not terminate pregnancy: Afterpill prevents pregnancy — it will not work if you are already pregnant.

For a deeper understanding, read our article on how Afterpill works and what you need to know about its uses and dosage.

The Bottom Line

While Afterpill is available without a prescription, seeing a doctor can save you money through insurance coverage and ensure you're choosing the most effective option for your body. Whether you visit your primary care doctor, a community health center, or use telehealth, getting a prescription is typically quick and straightforward.

If you're having trouble finding Afterpill at your local pharmacy, MedFinder can help you locate it in stock near you. And for more information about side effects, current availability, and why Afterpill can be hard to find, explore our full library of Afterpill resources.