Prescription contraceptives covered by PharmaCare

Last updated: October 27, 2022

BC PharmaCare helps pay for some contraceptive drugs and devices (i.e. birth control).

On this page: About contraceptive coverage | List of covered contraceptives | Medical abortion |  Items that are not covered | Resources

About contraceptive coverage

If you are registered for Plan W (First Nations Health Benefits) or Plan C (Income Assistance), PharmaCare will pay the full cost of many products.

If you are registered for Fair PharmaCare, coverage depends on your annual deductible and family maximum. B.C. residents are strongly encouraged to register for Fair PharmaCare. There is no cost. Fair PharmaCare coverage is based on your annual income. The less you make, the more help PharmaCare provides.

Birth control can be used for many reasons, including for hormonal regulation. PharmaCare coverage is provided based on the product, not the reason for the prescription (see list of covered products).

For abortion coverage, see medical abortion or surgical abortion.

Depending on your PharmaCare plan, PharmaCare may cover the contraceptive products listed below.

It should be noted these products do not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) or other sexually transmitted infections.

Notes:

• When available, PharmaCare coverage is focused on generic drugs, which are as safe and effective as brand-name products. If a generic drug is covered, PharmaCare will usually only cover the cost of the equivalent brand-name drug up to the cost of the generic product. In other words, PharmaCare helps more with the cost of generic products. Ask your prescriber or your pharmacist if a generic version is available.
• Different pharmacies charge different amounts for drugs and dispensing fees. You may want to compare prices.