If you‘re in need of emergency contraception and wondering where to find it at an affordable price, you may be considering a trip to your local Costco warehouse. After all, the wholesale giant is known for its low prices on everything from groceries to electronics. But does Costco sell Plan B, and if so, how much does it cost? In this in-depth guide, we‘ll answer all your questions about purchasing Plan B at Costco, plus provide expert insights on the importance of accessible emergency contraception.
What Is Plan B and How Does It Work?
Plan B is a type of emergency contraception that can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or birth control failure. The medication consists of a single pill containing 1.5 mg of levonorgestrel, a synthetic form of the hormone progestin. When taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, Plan B works by delaying ovulation and preventing fertilization of an egg. It may also help prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus.
It‘s important to note that Plan B is not an abortion pill and will not terminate an existing pregnancy. It is also not intended for regular birth control use, as it is less effective than other contraceptive methods like the pill or IUD.
Some common side effects of Plan B include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Irregular menstrual bleeding
- Breast tenderness
- Headache and dizziness
- Fatigue
While these side effects are generally mild and short-lived, it‘s a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns about taking Plan B.
Plan B Access and Unintended Pregnancy Rates
According to the Guttmacher Institute, a leading research and policy organization focused on sexual and reproductive health, nearly half of all pregnancies in the United States are unintended. In 2011, there were 45 unintended pregnancies per 1,000 women aged 15-44, a rate that has remained relatively stable since 2008.
Access to emergency contraception like Plan B can play a crucial role in reducing unintended pregnancy rates. A 2015 study published in the journal Contraception found that women who received a supply of emergency contraception in advance were more likely to use it when needed compared to those who had to obtain it after unprotected sex.
However, barriers to accessing emergency contraception remain, particularly for young and low-income women. A 2018 report from the American Society for Emergency Contraception found that while Plan B is available over the counter without a prescription, the high cost ($40-50 per pill) can be prohibitive for many. Additionally, some pharmacies may keep emergency contraception behind the counter or have limited stock on hand.
The Politics of Plan B
The journey to make Plan B available over the counter without a prescription was a long and contentious one. The medication was first approved by the FDA in 1999 as a prescription-only drug. In 2006, the agency approved Plan B for over-the-counter sale to women 18 and older, while those 17 and younger still required a prescription.
This age restriction was met with criticism from medical and advocacy groups, who argued that it created unnecessary barriers to access for younger women. In 2013, under pressure from a federal judge, the FDA approved Plan B for over-the-counter sale without age restrictions.
However, some states have since passed laws allowing pharmacists to refuse to dispense emergency contraception based on personal beliefs. As of 2021, six states (Arizona, Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Mississippi, and South Dakota) have such laws on the books, according to the Guttmacher Institute.
Costco‘s Plan B Offerings and Prices
So, does Costco sell Plan B? The answer is yes, Plan B is available at Costco pharmacies nationwide. A spokesperson for the company confirmed that all Costco pharmacies carry Plan B One-Step and sell it over the counter without a prescription or age restriction.
As for the cost, Costco‘s prices on Plan B are some of the lowest around. While prices may vary slightly by location, Plan B at Costco typically costs between $7.99 and $15.99 per pill. For comparison, here‘s a look at Plan B prices at other major retailers:
| Retailer | Plan B Price |
|---|---|
| Costco | $7.99 – $15.99 |
| Walmart | $32.97 – $44.97 |
| Walgreens | $49.99 |
| CVS | $49.99 |
| Rite Aid | $49.99 |
As you can see, Costco‘s Plan B prices are significantly lower than other major pharmacy chains. However, it‘s worth noting that you may need to be a Costco member to access these low prices. At some locations, the pharmacy is open to non-members, but you may be charged a 5% surcharge on your purchase.
Costco‘s Pharmacy Services
In addition to Plan B, Costco pharmacies offer a wide range of services and products to meet your health needs. These include:
- Prescription medications: Costco offers competitive prices on generic and brand-name drugs, plus a discount program for members.
- Specialty drugs: Costco‘s specialty pharmacy provides medications for complex and chronic conditions like cancer, HIV, and multiple sclerosis.
- Pet medications: Costco pharmacies can fill prescriptions for your furry friends, often at lower prices than the vet‘s office.
- Immunizations: Many Costco pharmacies offer vaccines for flu, pneumonia, shingles, and more.
- Health screenings: Some locations provide free health screenings for conditions like diabetes, osteoporosis, and heart health.
Costco also offers online prescription refills and mail-order delivery for added convenience. However, it‘s important to note that not all insurance plans are accepted at Costco pharmacies, so be sure to check with your provider before filling a prescription.
Expert Perspectives on Emergency Contraception Access
To get a healthcare provider‘s perspective on the importance of emergency contraception access, we spoke with Dr. Sarah Pickle, MD, MPH, a family medicine physician and women‘s health expert.
"Emergency contraception is a safe and effective way to prevent unintended pregnancy after unprotected sex," Dr. Pickle says. "It‘s crucial that people of all ages have access to affordable options like Plan B, without barriers or stigma."
Dr. Pickle notes that while progress has been made in recent years to increase access to emergency contraception, there is still work to be done.
"Cost remains a significant barrier for many people, especially young and low-income individuals," she says. "Pharmacist refusal laws also create unnecessary hurdles to access. I‘d like to see more policies that prioritize affordable, convenient access to emergency contraception for everyone who needs it."
Frequently Asked Questions About Plan B
Still have questions about Plan B? Here are answers to some common queries:
How effective is Plan B?
When taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, Plan B is up to 89% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, it becomes less effective the longer you wait to take it.
Can I take Plan B if I‘m already on birth control?
Yes, Plan B can be used as a backup method if you missed a pill or your regular birth control failed (e.g. a broken condom). However, it should not be used as a substitute for regular contraception.
How often can I take Plan B?
While there is no limit to how many times you can take Plan B, it is not recommended for routine use. If you find yourself relying on emergency contraception frequently, it‘s a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider about finding a more effective birth control method.
Can Plan B affect my fertility?
No, taking Plan B will not impact your future fertility. It works by delaying ovulation and does not cause any long-term effects on the reproductive system.
How long after taking Plan B should I get my period?
Most people will get their period within a week of their expected start date after taking Plan B. However, it‘s not uncommon for the medication to cause irregular bleeding or changes to your menstrual cycle. If you don‘t get your period within 3 weeks of taking Plan B, it‘s a good idea to take a pregnancy test.
The Bottom Line
In summary, Costco is an excellent option for purchasing Plan B emergency contraception at an affordable price. With prices ranging from $7.99 to $15.99 per pill, Costco offers some of the lowest costs on Plan B compared to other major retailers. The medication is available over the counter without a prescription or age restriction at all Costco pharmacies, making it accessible to those who need it most.
However, it‘s important to remember that while Plan B can be a helpful tool for preventing unintended pregnancy, it should not be relied upon as a regular form of birth control. If you are sexually active and want to prevent pregnancy, speak with a healthcare provider about your contraceptive options.
Ultimately, everyone deserves access to affordable and convenient emergency contraception, regardless of their income, age, or location. By offering Plan B at low prices and without restrictions, Costco is helping to break down barriers and increase access to this essential medication. So the next time you‘re in need of emergency contraception, consider heading to your local Costco pharmacy – your wallet and your reproductive health will thank you.
