Longer contraceptive prescriptions may reduce unwanted pregnancies, abortions

Women who receive one-year prescriptions for their birth control pills are significantly less likely to experience unintended pregnancy or seek an abortion than those who receive three-month supplies, according to a recent study conducted at the University of California, San Francisco.

Out of the 84,401 females who participated in the study, 65,000 received prescriptions that provided them with fewer than three months of oral contraceptives.

The results showed a 30 percent reduction in the odds of pregnancy and a 46 percent decrease in the odds of an abortion in women who were given a one-year supply of birth control pills versus women who received one- or three-month supplies.

Researchers said they believe that simplifying birth control prescriptions by limiting the number of times per year that women need to visit their pharmacies may also reduce the amount of taxpayer money spent on abortions.

If all of the participants had been given one-year pill supplies, study investigators estimate that 1,300 publicly funded pregnancies and 300 abortions would have been averted.

Although birth control pills are effective in preventing pregnancy when used properly, they do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

To determine one's STD status, individuals may consider using online testing services.