Birth Control Cost and Coverage in Ontario

Birth control is an essential health consideration for many people, but the cost can vary widely depending on the method. Understanding the prices of different contraceptives and what is covered by public health or private insurance is key to making an informed decision on which is best for you.

In Canada, oral contraceptives cost around $25 per unit or $300 per year. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs), which are effective for five years, costaround up to $500 per unit. These prices are only if you don’t have any insurance or coverage. 

OHIP itself does not cover prescription drugs like the pill for most people, but OHIP+ does. If you are 24 years-old or under and don’t have private insurance, you likely qualify for OHIP+. If you are over the age of 24 you will either need to pay out-of-pocket or if you have private insurance, it will be covered under that.

IUD Prices in Ontario (Copper vs Hormonal)

IUDs offer long action contraception, but they have a higher upfront cost. There are two main types of IUDs, non-hormonal copper IUDs and hormonal IUDs. 

Copper IUDs (Mona Lisa or Liberte brands) cost around $60 to $100 in Ontario if you’re paying out-of-pocket. They last up to 5-10 years, making them cost-effective over time. However, they are not covered by OHIP+ for youth. If you have private insurance, check if your plan covers the cost; many plans will cover an IUD prescription. 

Hormonal IUDs (Mirena, Kyleena, or others) release hormones and typically last up to five years. They cost around $300-$500 for the device but if you have OHIP+ some brands are covered by it. Many private insurance plans also cover hormonal IUDs. While you do have to pay for the IUD device itself (if not covered) the doctor’s appointment to insert an IUD is covered by OHIP. 

While IUDs do have a high upfront cost, it’s long lifespan makes it more affordable. For example, a $400 hormonal IUD used for five years works out to be $80 per year, which can be cheaper in the long run. 

Nexplanon Implant: What is it and How Much Does it Cost?

The nexplanon implant is a thin, flexible rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm that provides up to three years of birth control. It’s a newer form of contraception in Canada and is available in Ontario. 

Without insurance nexplanon costs roughly $300 to $500 for the device. This would be a one-time cost for up to three years of protection. In Ontario, this procedure would be done by a health care provider and would be covered under OHIP.

Nexplanon is one of the methods covered by OHIP+ for individuals who are eligible for it. For individuals 25 years-old and older you could either pay out-of-pocket or check if your private insurer has it covered.

Since this is a new form of contraception not all private insurers will have it listed so make sure you check with them. Keep in mind that you will need a trained professional to insert and remove the device. 

Some telehealth services or family planning clinics can help arrange this, though you will need an in-person appointment for the actual procedure.

Other Birth Control Methods and Their Prices 

Beyond pills, IUDs, and implants, there are a few other popular birth control methods. 

The contraceptive patch is a sticky hormone-releasing patch changed weekly. It costs about $20 to $40 per month. The patches are not covered by OHIP+ so anyone under 25 without private insurance would have to pay out-of pocket. Many private insurance  plans do cover the patch.

A vaginal ring is a flexible ring inserted monthly. It costs around $25 to $30 per month when paying out-of-pocket. The rings are not covered by OHIP+ so you’d either pay the full amount or have it covered by private insurance.

The depo-provera injection (birth control shot) is taken every three months. Each shot costs around $40 to $50, totaling around $150 to $200 per year. OHIP+ does cover the injectable for 24 year-old and under or you can get it covered by your insurance provider or pay out-of-pocket. 

The emergency contraceptive pill (Plan B or others) is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraception failure. One dose typically costs around $30 to $50 at Ontario pharmacies. Plan B and some other morning after pills are covered by OHIP+ for youth. Most private plans will cover emergency contraceptives if prescribed or provided by a pharmacist. 

Each method’s price can vary depending on the pharmacy and brand. Generic options are usually cheaper than the name-brand options. Pharmacies may charge a dispensing fee on top of medication cost as well. Ask your healthcare provider for a more affordable option if this is a concern for you.

OHIP Coverage vs Private Insurance for Birth Control Options

OHIP covers doctor’s visits or procedures related to contraception but not the medication or devices for the majority of adults. The exception is OHIP+ which is only for people 24 years-old or younger who are eligible. 

OHIP+ doesn’t cover some birth control methods like contraceptive patches and vaginal rings. Non-hormonal copper IUDs are also not covered by OHIP+ or certain newer or name brand birth control pills if a cheaper version exists. 

For anything not covered, you would pay out-of-pocket or it would be covered by a private insurance company, if you have one. 

Many employer-based or student health plans include coverage for contraceptives. If you have a drug plan you will pay a co-pay or nothing at all for birth control. If you do not have private insurance or OHIP+ you will have to pay out-of-pocket for birth control. 

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