How to Prevent Pregnancy During the COVID-19 Pandemic

By Allison Reilly | April 10, 2020, 4:29 p.m.

You may be your safest sex partner, but for those of us living with our partners during the pandemic, it is safe to have sex with them as long as both of you are healthy and neither of you are showing symptoms. Sex with your partner may be safe from the coronavirus, but preventing pregnancy may be an issue as stores close and supplies dwindle. Here are a few ways to help you prevent pregnancy during the COVID-19 pandemic:

Use birth control that doesn’t require a prescription

They aren’t the most effective methods, but options like the pull out (withdrawal) method, the rhythm method (fertility awareness) and abstinence can all be done without needing to visit a pharmacy or a clinician. Condoms are still an option as well, but there may be a global condom shortage soon as the pandemic slows down or stops manufacturers all together.

For those with an implant or IUD about to expire, you may wonder if it’s safe to keep those devices in longer than intended, especially since many health centers aren’t doing LARC removals or insertions at this time. Yes, it is safe to have an expired device, although you shouldn’t rely on it to prevent pregnancy. If you need a “bridge method” in the meantime, consider the suggestions above or below.

Get birth control through Planned Parenthood Direct

In Missouri and Illinois, patients can get a birth control prescription through an app in a matter of hours with Planned Parenthood Direct. With PP Direct, simply answer a few questions and you can pick up your birth control at your local pharmacy or have it mailed to your door. No appointment needed, and get up to 12 months of birth control with just one prescription. Get birth control with or without insurance.

The app is free to download and available in both the App Store and Google Play store. If you have questions about how the app works or about any particular methods of birth control, give us a call at 314-531-7526 or 417-883-3800.

Stock up on emergency contraception

Unlike birth control, emergency contraception like Plan B is available at your local pharmacy without a prescription. It’s not necessarily over the counter, but EC can be purchased at any time (including at Planned Parenthood). In case the condom breaks or your partner doesn’t pull out in time, having extra emergency contraception on hand can save a lot of stress and panic. EC can last up to five years before it expires, and having EC readily available in your home encourages earlier use. The earlier it’s taken, the more effective it is at preventing pregnancy.

If you have any additional questions about preventing pregnancy, accessing birth control or getting your prescription refilled, you can always give us a call at 314-531-7526 or 417-883-3800. Our staff are happy to answer your questions and may be able to help without a visit to the health center.

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