For those already on combination birth control pills, regulating estrogen and progestin levels can improve hormonal acne as an added benefit. This happens by lowering androgen activity, which reduces oil production in the skin and helps prevent breakouts over time. Many people notice improvement after 2-3 months of consistent use.

That said, if acne is a concern for you, it’s important to talk to your provider about your options. They can determine whether birth control is an appropriate part of your treatment plan overall and ensure that you’re getting the right care for your skin.

Hormonal birth control can reduce menstrual cramps, lighten periods, and make cycles more predictable. By regulating hormone levels and suppressing ovulation, the pill can decrease the uterine contractions that cause pain during menstruation.

If cramps or period symptoms are a concern for you, talk to your provider so they can determine the best approach for you overall.

Birth control pills should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture, like a drawer or medicine cabinet. Avoid storing them in the bathroom, car, or anywhere with high humidity or heat, as this can reduce their effectiveness.

Keep pills in their original packaging until use, and always check the expiration date before taking them. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.

Missing a birth control pill can reduce its effectiveness and increase the risk of pregnancy. What to do depends on the type of pill and how many were missed. For most combination pills, take the missed pill as soon as you remember, then continue your pack as usual. You may need to use backup contraception, like condoms, for the next 7 days.

Progestin-only pills are more time-sensitive. If you’re more than 3 hours late, use a backup method. Always check your pill’s instructions or ask your provider for guidance.

Most birth control pills are not available over the counter and require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

With Sesame, providers can write a new prescription or refill an existing one through a convenient virtual visit. Depending on the medication and your location, your birth control prescription can often be sent to a local pharmacy for same-day pickup.

Schedule an online consultation with a licensed provider to see which birth control option is safe and appropriate for you. Keep in mind that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.

Getting the contraceptive pill online is convenient, fast, and discreet. With a video visit through Sesame, you can talk to a licensed provider from home and order birth control online without needing an in-person appointment at a health center or clinic like Planned Parenthood.

If prescribed, your birth control pills can be sent to a local pharmacy for quick pickup, and follow-up care or refill requests can be managed entirely online. Online prescriptions save time, reduce stress, and make it easier to stay consistent with your contraception.

Birth control comes in many forms, including hormonal and non-hormonal options, each designed to prevent pregnancy and, in some cases, manage menstrual symptoms.

Hormonal methods include oral pills such as drospirenone, ethinyl estradiol, levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol (generic for Amythyst), norethindrone/ethinyl estradiol (Loestrin), and norgestimate/ethinyl estradiol.

Other hormonal options include etonogestrel implants (Nexplanon), transdermal birth control patches, hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs), and vaginal rings, or contraceptive rings (NuvaRing).

Non-hormonal methods include non-hormonal copper IUDs, cervical caps, spermicides, and barrier methods like condoms. For protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), barrier methods help reduce the risk of transmission. Emergency contraception, such as levonorgestrel, is available for use after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.

​​Together, these methods provide a range of birth control options depending on your health needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Some offer long-term protection, while others are short-term or used only during sex.