Which birth-control pills can be prescribed online here?
The progestin-only pill norethindrone 0.35 mg (the mini-pill) only. Combined estrogen-containing pills are not prescribed in this visit because national guidelines require a verified blood pressure below 140/90 before starting estrogen, and an online visit cannot verify one yet. Drospirenone (Slynd), patches, rings, injections, IUDs, and implants are also not offered here.
Do I need an exam, labs, or a blood-pressure check first?
Not for the mini-pill. CDC guidance (US MEC and US SPR 2024) states that no examination or testing is required before starting a progestin-only pill: careful screening questions are the standard. The intake still records your most recent blood pressure because it matters if you ever want combined pills.
How much supply do I get, and how do refills work?
Each prescription covers 3 months. Before each refill you complete a short re-check confirming nothing has changed (no new diagnoses or medicines, no warning signs, no chance of pregnancy), and at least every 12 months a full re-evaluation with the complete questionnaire is required.
How do I take the mini-pill correctly?
Take one tablet at the same time every day with no pill-free days. The window is strict: a pill taken more than 3 hours late counts as missed. Take it as soon as you remember, keep taking the pack, and use condoms or another backup method for the next 7 days. Backup is also advised for the first 7 days after starting. Irregular bleeding or spotting is common and expected, especially at first.
Can I use this visit while breastfeeding or after having a baby?
Usually yes. The progestin-only pill is considered safe while breastfeeding and soon after delivery. If you gave birth less than 6 weeks ago, the physician gives your request extra review to confirm timing. Combined estrogen pills are a different story postpartum and are not offered here.
When should birth control be handled in person instead?
If you might be pregnant, have unexplained vaginal bleeding, have ever had breast cancer, a heart attack, a stroke or TIA, severe liver disease, or lupus with positive or unknown antiphospholipid antibodies, take enzyme-inducing medicines, had malabsorptive weight-loss surgery, or want pills for acne, PCOS, or heavy periods: see a gynecologist or your primary care clinician in person. Severe pelvic pain, chest pain, a severe headache with neurologic symptoms, new leg swelling, or vision changes are emergency-department problems.