Over-the-Counter Contraception and Reproductive Health: An Overview

Cristin Hackel is an experienced nurse practitioner with a background in OB/GYN offices in the United States and Japan. She currently serves as the medical director of Nurx Gynecological Services, where she provides patient care and oversees a large team of providers. With over 25 years of experience, Cristin ensures timely and high-quality care for Nurx’s 500,000 active patients.

In a recent episode of Pharmacy Focus, Cristin Hackel was interviewed about OTC contraception and the pharmacist’s role in reproductive health. The conversation touched on available OTC options like condoms and emergency contraceptive pills, as well as the newly approved Opill. Hackel explained the differences in efficacy between OTC and prescription methods, highlighting the importance of accessibility and self-screening with OTC options.

The discussion also covered the public health benefits of increased access to contraception and its impact on reproductive rights. Hackel emphasized the role of pharmacists in promoting education and awareness of contraceptive options within their communities. By stocking OTC products and being knowledgeable advisors to patients, pharmacists play a crucial part in ensuring individuals have access to contraception and are empowered to make informed choices about their reproductive health.

Key takeaways from the interview include the approval of Opill as the first OTC oral contraceptive pill, the lower efficacy of OTC options compared to prescription methods, the positive impact of increased access to contraception on public health outcomes, and the important role pharmacists play in promoting education and awareness of contraceptive options.