DRUG STORES SET PURCHASE LIMITS ON PLAN B CONTRACEPTIVE PILLS AFTER ROE V. WADE RULING
Drug stores, including CVS and Rite Aid, are restricting the number of purchases for emergency contraceptives following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.
CVS said in a statement that limiting the quantity customers can buy will allow “equitable access and consistent supply on store shelves.”
Alicja Wojczyk, Rite Aid’s senior manager for external communications, told CNN, “Due to increased demand, at this time we are limiting purchases of Plan B contraceptive pills to three per customer.”
Emergency contraceptive pills are different than abortion pills such as mifepristone and misoprostol. “Using (emergency contraception) does not cause an abortion. An abortion ends an existing pregnancy. EC prevents pregnancy from occurring. EC must be used soon after unprotected sexual intercourse to be effective. It does not work if pregnancy has already occurred,” the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists said.
As demand continues to rise, health experts recommend buying one or two morning-after pills or getting a prescription in advance, so you’re prepared when you need it. Still, it’s important to note that these pills can expire.
However, the cost of emergency contraceptive pills can impact accessibility to low-income earners. Those who cannot afford emergency contraceptive pills can seek coverage from their health insurance provider. However, if your insurance does not cover the cost, you will need a prescription from a doctor to cover the cost of the pill. Also, note that you can check with your local Planned Parenthood.
