Important Safety Information for Birth Control

Birth control methods can help prevent pregnancy when used correctly. Some methods may also be prescribed for cycle regulation, menstrual symptoms, acne, or other hormone-related concerns, depending on your health history and doctor assessment.

Birth control is not suitable for everyone. The safest option depends on your age, blood pressure, smoking status, migraine history, pregnancy or breastfeeding status, medical conditions, current medicines, and personal preferences.

At NowExpress, prescription birth control products require review by a licensed doctor before approval and dispensing.

What birth control is used for

Birth control may be used for:

Preventing pregnancy
Regulating menstrual cycles
Reducing menstrual cramps or heavy bleeding
Helping with acne or hormone-related symptoms, when appropriate
Supporting doctor-guided reproductive health care

Your doctor will determine whether a specific birth control method is appropriate for you.

Types of birth control available

NowExpress may offer doctor-reviewed options such as:

Combined oral contraceptives
Progestin-only pills
Injectable birth control

Each type has different benefits, risks, side effects, and instructions for use.

Birth control does not protect against STIs

Most birth control methods do not protect against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. Condoms can help reduce the risk of STIs and HIV when used correctly and consistently. The CDC notes that most contraceptive methods do not protect against STIs.

Who should talk to a doctor before using birth control

Tell your doctor if you:

Smoke or vape nicotine, especially if you are 35 years old or older
Have high blood pressure
Have migraine, especially migraine with aura
Have a history of blood clots, stroke, heart attack, chest pain, or heart disease
Have liver disease, liver tumors, breast cancer, or unexplained vaginal bleeding
Are pregnant, recently gave birth, or are breastfeeding
Have diabetes with complications
Are taking medicines for seizures, tuberculosis, HIV, or herbal products such as St. John’s Wort
Are scheduled for major surgery or may be immobile for a long period

The CDC U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria provides method-specific recommendations for contraceptive use in people with certain medical conditions or characteristics.

Warning signs and emergency care

Seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience:

Chest pain or pressure
Sudden shortness of breath
Coughing blood
Severe headache that is new or unusual
Vision changes or vision loss
Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
Severe pain or swelling in one leg
Severe abdominal pain
Fainting
Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Do not wait for an online consultation if you have emergency symptoms.