The Cost of Birth Control in Ontario: Does OHIP Cover It?
Updated Feb 2026 - Written by Krista DeKuyper
This article covers OHIP birth control coverage, how much it costs out-of-pocket in Ontario, and private insurance options to get coverage.
Key Takeaways
Birth control costs in Ontario vary widely depending on the method, from about $20–$55 per month for pills to $350+ upfront for hormonal IUDs.
Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) covers some birth control for residents aged 24 and under through the OHIP+ program.
For people 25 and older, OHIP generally does not cover birth control devices or prescriptions.
Some medications, newer contraceptive brands, and certain patches, rings, or IUDs may not be covered under OHIP+.
Without public coverage, costs must be paid out of pocket or through private health insurance.
Employer benefits and individual health insurance plans often include coverage for birth control, though reimbursement levels and eligible methods vary.
Comparing private plans can help you find coverage for specific methods, manage out-of-pocket costs, and maintain access to contraception after age 25.
Compare health insurance plans easily with our free instant quoting tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Birth control is free for Ontario residents aged 24 and under with a valid OHIP card.
-
OHIP stops covering birth control once a OHIP card holder turns 25.
-
Yes, if you are under 25 years old, OHIP will cover the cost of a hormonal birth control arm implant.
-
Yes, OHIP will cover the morning-after pill for OHIP card holders aged 24 and under, as long as they don’t have private insurance.
-
People over 25 are no longer covered by OHIP for birth control. For birth control coverage, they must either pay-out-pocket or purchase a private health insurance plan.
-
Private health insurance coverage is usually worth it if you pay for birth control regularly or don’t have workplace benefits.
Private plans can reduce out-of-pocket costs for prescriptions and other health needs, but coverage varies and may not include every method.
It’s especially valuable for individuals seeking IUDs, which can be very expensive out-of-pocket.
Browse Ontario’s Top Health Insurance Plans
Find the plans that meet your needs in minutes, all for free.
Types of Birth Control Available in Ontario
Oral Contraceptives
Often referred to as “the pill”. There are two main types:
Combination birth control pills: contains both estrogen and progestin
The minipill: only contains progestin
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
Type of birth control that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy.
Works by preventing fertilization and implantation of eggs in the uterus.
Lasts 3 to 12 years depending on the type used.
Patch
Hormonal patch made of synthetic estrogen and progesterone placed on the skin weekly.
Benefits include shorter, lighter periods and reduced cramping.
Rings
A flexible, plastic ring containing synthetic estrogen and progesterone inserted into the vagina every 3 weeks.
Prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus to block sperm from reaching the eggs.
Condoms
Usually made from latex or polyurethane and designed to be worn over the penis during sexual intercourse.
Also works as protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Do not require a prescription and can be purchased over-the-counter.
Cost of Different Birth Control in 2026
The cost of birth control in Canada is dependent on the type of birth control. For a general idea of costs:
Birth Control Pills
Cost anywhere between $20 and $55 per month on average.
Hormonal IUDs
At least $350+ up front.
Non-Hormonal IUDs
An average of $50.
Injectable Contraceptives
An average of $45.
Emergency Contraceptives (Plan B)
Cost anywhere between $30-$50 each.
In general, long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants tend to be more expensive upfront but are cost-effective in the long run due to their lifespan.
Birth control pills are usually relatively inexpensive but require a monthly prescription refill, which adds up over time. Other forms of contraception, such as condoms and diaphragms, are affordable and do not require a prescription.
Some of these methods are covered by OHIP, but without OHIP coverage, you will need to pay out-of-pocket or purchase a private health plan.
Does OHIP Cover Birth Control in 2026?
If you are 24 and under…
If you are 24 or younger then some birth control methods are covered for you under the OHIP+ program.
This generally includes most oral contraceptive pills, emergency contraceptive pills (plan B), IUDs, and injections/implants
The OHIP+ program is an extension of OHIP that was introduced in January 2018. This program provides free coverage of more than 5000 drug products for anyone age 24 of younger who is not covered by a private plan. The birth control covered by this program are pills, IUDs, and injectables.
To search for coverage of a specific drug use this tool: Check Medication Coverage
If you are over 25…
If you are 25 or older, OHIP does not cover any birth control methods in 2026*.
You can potentially access more coverage if you are considered low-income and qualify for a specialty drug program. Besides that, you will need to have private insurance or pay for your birth control out of pocket.
*While OHIP won’t cover the IUD device itself, it will cover the medical fees of inserting and/or removing an IUD device.
Birth Control Not Covered by OHIP+
Newer oral contraceptive pills (e.g. Tri-Cyclen Lo 21, Novo-Cyproterone/Ethinyl Estradiol 21, Indayo 91)
Some contraceptive patches (e.g. Evra)
Some intrauterine devices (IUDs) (e.g. Copper IUD, Jaydess (LNG IUS 8) IUD)
Some contraceptive rings (e.g. Nuvaring)
How to Get Birth Control Covered After 25
Since OHIP won’t continue to cover your birth control, you’ll need to turn to private coverage options.
The first option is to get your own health insurance plan. By purchasing your own plan, you can ensure the coverage includes exactly what you need, including birth control.
If you have work benefits, that plan may cover your birth control. Check your policy or ask your employer about plan details.
Browse Health Insurance Quotes
Compare plans within minutes. No need to phone a broker.
What Birth Control Methods Are Typically Covered in Private Plans?
Birth control pills
IUDs (hormonal and copper)
Contraceptive injections
Vaginal rings
Emergency contraceptives (morning-after pill)
Generally any hormonal and non-hormonal method prescribed by a doctor
OHIP vs. Private Insurance for Birth Control Coverage
| Feature | OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) | Private Insurance Plans |
|---|---|---|
| Who It Covers | Ontario residents under 25 with a valid OHIP card | Individuals covered through an employer-sponsored or individually purchased plan |
| Prescription Contraceptives (Pill, Patch, Ring) | Covered for Ontario residents under 25 with a valid OHIP card | Usually covered, depending on the plan’s drug list |
| IUDs (Hormonal & Copper) | Device cost covered for Ontario residents under 25; insertion covered as a physician service | Often covered; may require co-pay or partial payment |
| Implant (e.g., Nexplanon) | Covered for Ontario residents under 25 | Frequently covered, but varies by insurer |
| Emergency Contraception (Prescription) | Covered for Ontario residents under 25 | Often covered; over-the-counter versions may not be reimbursed |
| Doctor Visits for Birth Control | Covered under OHIP | Covered through provincial health insurance |
| Upfront Costs | $0 for Ontario residents under 25 | May include co-pay, deductible, or percentage reimbursement |
| Choice of Brands | Limited to medications approved under provincial coverage | Broader selection depending on plan |
Top Private Health Insurance Plans that Cover Birth Control in Ontario
Manulife FlexCare ComboPlus Starter
An entry-level choice offering comprehensive coverage for health, dental, and drug benefits.
Manulife FlexCare ComboPlus Enhanced
An upgraded option offering higher coverage: 90% drug coverage, 100% dental coverage, and no maximum dispensing fee.
Blue Cross Complete Health Entry + Essential Drug Benefits
Blue cross’s entry-level option with basic health and drug coverage.
Blue Cross Complete Health Essential + Enhanced Drug Benefits
An upgraded option offering Blue Cross’s maximum drug coverage.
Manulife FlexCare ComboPlus Starter
| Manulife FlexCare ComboPlus Starter | |
|---|---|
| Premium |
Starting at $87–97* *Pricing changes based on province, based on a single person aged 18–44 |
| Birth Control Coverage | |
| Oral Contraceptives | Yes |
| Intrauterine Device (IUD) | Maybe |
| Patch | Maybe |
| Rings | Maybe |
| Condoms | No |
| Coverage Details – What Else It Covers | |
| Prescription Drugs | 70% coverage up to $500/year |
| Dental | 70% coverage up to $500/year |
| Vision | $150 every 2 years |
| Paramedical Services | $300 per practitioner/year |
| Travel Insurance | Not included |
Blue Cross Complete Health Entry + Essential Drug Benefits
| Blue Cross Complete Health Entry + Essential Drug Benefits | |
|---|---|
| Cost | Starting at $65 to $75 |
| Birth Control Coverage | |
| Oral Contraceptives | Yes |
| Intrauterine Device (IUD) | Yes |
| Patch | Yes |
| Rings | Yes |
| Condoms | No |
| Coverage Details | |
| Prescription Drug |
70% coverage No overall maximum Smoking Cessation: $800/5CYs |
| Does Not Cover |
Allergy Serums Vaccines Erectile Dysfunction Fertility Treatment |
| Health Practitioners |
Psychologist: $55 per visit, up to $250 per calendar year Physiotherapist: $40 per visit, up to $250 per calendar year Chiropractor: $40 per visit, up to $250 per calendar year Dietitian: $40 per visit, up to $250 per calendar year Audiologist: $40 per visit, up to $250 per calendar year Occupational Therapist: $40 per visit, up to $250 per calendar year Osteopath: $40 per visit, up to $250 per calendar year Podiatrist / Chiropodist: $40 per visit, up to $250 per calendar year Speech Therapist: $40 per visit, up to $250 per calendar year |
| Not Covered Under Complete Health Entry |
Massage Therapist Acupuncturist Naturopath |
| Additional Health Coverage |
Orthotics: Up to $150 per calendar year Vision Care: Up to $100 every 2 calendar years Accidental Dental: Up to $7,000 per lifetime |
| Not Covered |
Ambulance services Hearing aids Diabetic supplies Medical equipment Nursing services Prosthetics No travel coverage |
Easy Browsing With Our Instant Quoting Tool
Find and compare plans from different carriers for free!
Manulife FlexCare ComboPlus Enhanced
| Manulife Flexcare ComboPlus Enhanced | |
|---|---|
| Premium |
Starting at $194.00* *Pricing changes based on province, based on a single person aged 18–44 |
| Birth Control Coverage | |
| Oral Contraceptives | Yes |
| Intrauterine Device (IUD) | Yes |
| Patch | Yes |
| Rings | Yes |
| Condoms | No |
| Coverage Details – What Else It Covers | |
| Prescription Drugs |
90% coverage up to $2,400/year Brand-name or generic drugs Maximum dispensing fee: No maximum Reimbursement: 90% of the first $2,222, 100% of the next $8,000 Maximum per year: $10,000 |
| Dental |
100% coverage up to $1,500/year Reimbursement for maintenance services: 100% of the first $500, 60% of the next $700 Anniversary maximum: $920 Major restorative services covered after Year 2 Additional reimbursement for surgical extractions and orthodontics |
| Vision |
$250 every 2 years Maximum of $250 every 2 consecutive benefit years Optometrist visit reimbursement: Maximum of $70 per 2 consecutive benefit years |
| Paramedical Services |
$400 per practitioner/year $25 per visit, maximum of 20 visits per specialist Registered psychologist visits: Maximum 15 visits, first visit $80, subsequent visits $65 |
| Travel Insurance | 9-day emergency coverage |
| Lifetime Maximum Coverage | $500,000 per person |
Blue Cross Complete Health Essential + Enhanced Drug Benefits
| Blue Cross Complete Health Essential + Enhanced Drug Benefits | |
|---|---|
| Premium | Starting at $105–115 |
| Birth Control Coverage | |
| Oral Contraceptives | Yes |
| Intrauterine Device (IUD) | Yes |
| Patch | Yes |
| Rings | Yes |
| Condoms | No |
| Overall Coverage Details | |
| Health Benefits |
70% coverage Psychologist: $55 per visit – max $400/CY Physiotherapist: $55 per visit – max $400/CY Chiropractor: $55 per visit – max $400/CY Dietitian: $55 per visit – max $400/CY Audiologist: $55 per visit – max $400/CY Occupational Therapist: $55 per visit – max $400/CY Osteopath: $55 per visit – max $400/CY Podiatrist / Chiropodist: $55 per visit – max $400/CY Ambulance: $420/CY Hearing aids: $400/5CYs Orthotics: $150/CY Vision Care: $150/2CYs Diabetic Supplies: No overall maximum Medical Equipment: No overall maximum Nursing: $3,500/2CYs Prosthetics: Up to $10,000/LT Accidental Dental: $7,000/LT |
| Dental Benefits |
70% Fillings: No overall maximum Includes dental exams, cleanings and x-rays Extractions and Root Canals: No overall maximum |
| Drug Benefits |
80% coverage No overall maximum Smoking Cessation: $800/5CYs Allergy Serums: $500/CY Vaccines: $250/CY Fertility: $1,500/CY up to $3,000/LT |
Easy Browsing With Our Instant Quoting Tool
Find and compare plans from different carriers for free!