Birth Control Pills in Canada: Types, Costs, and How to Save

How Do Birth Control Pills Work?

Oral contraceptives are the most commonly used form of reversible birth control in Canada, taken by an estimated 1.3 million women. They work primarily by preventing ovulation — the release of an egg from the ovaries — and also thicken cervical mucus to block sperm and thin the uterine lining to prevent implantation.

Types of Birth Control Pills

Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) contain both an estrogen (usually ethinyl estradiol) and a progestin. They are the most common type and come in many formulations. Common brands include Alesse, Marvelon, Yasmin, Diane-35, and Tri-Cyclen.

Progestin-only pills (POPs), also called the "mini-pill," contain only a progestin and are an option for women who cannot take estrogen (such as those who are breastfeeding, over 35 and smoke, or have a history of blood clots). Micronor is the most common POP in Canada.

Newer Options

Drospirenone-only pills (Slynd) are a newer progestin-only option with a wider dosing window than traditional POPs. They tend to be more expensive since they are still under patent.

Brand vs Generic: Names and Pricing

Many popular birth control pills now have generic equivalents, and the savings can be substantial.

For most women, generic birth control pills are equally effective and safe as their brand-name counterparts. Over a year, switching from brand to generic can save $120 to $300.

Tips for Saving Money on Birth Control

• Ask for the generic version. If your doctor prescribes a brand name, your pharmacist can usually substitute a generic unless instructed otherwise.
• Compare pharmacy prices on TransparentMedz. Birth control pricing varies between pharmacies, and since you fill this prescription every month, the savings accumulate.
• Consider a 3-month supply. This reduces dispensing fees and means fewer pharmacy trips.
• Talk to your doctor about equally effective cheaper options. If you are on a newer, more expensive pill, an older generic formulation may work just as well for you.
• Check your insurance coverage. Many employer plans cover contraceptives at 100%, but you may need to use a generic to get full coverage.

Canadian Pharmacare Coverage

Birth control coverage varies significantly by province. British Columbia became the first province to cover prescription contraceptives universally (free for all residents) starting in 2023. Ontario's OHIP+ covers birth control pills for those under 25.

Under the Pharmacare Act, contraceptives are specifically identified as a priority medication class. The federal government has committed to providing universal coverage for birth control, which would make it free for all Canadians regardless of age or province. This is a landmark change that is expected to save Canadian women an estimated $100 to $300 per year each.

Until national coverage is fully implemented, check whether your province offers any contraceptive coverage, and use TransparentMedz to find the best generic pricing at pharmacies near you.

The Bottom Line

Birth control pills are safe, effective, and increasingly affordable — especially as provinces and the federal government expand coverage. If you are still paying out of pocket, switch to a generic and compare prices. TransparentMedz can help you find the lowest price available so you never overpay for your contraception.