Hers Birth Control Overview
- Cost: From $12/month (with extended plan)
- What’s prescribed: Combination pills (estrogen + progestin), progestin-only pills
- Common ingredients: Ethinyl estradiol, norethindrone acetate, levonorgestrel, drospirenone, norgestimate
- Administration method: Daily oral pills
- FDA information: FDA-approved medications
- Insurance information: Doesn’t accept insurance (out-of-pocket only)
- Potential side effects: Nausea, mood changes, spotting, breast tenderness, headaches
Finding the right birth control can feel like a never-ending process—between scheduling doctor’s appointments, dealing with pharmacy delays, and navigating side effects, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why I decided to try Hers, a telehealth platform that promises to make birth control more accessible and stress-free. With online consultations and discreet home delivery, it sounded like a game-changer for anyone tired of jumping through traditional healthcare hoops.
But convenience doesn’t always mean quality—so I wanted to see if Hers actually delivers on its promise. In this review, I’ll break down my experience with their process, the available birth control options, how much it really costs, and whether it’s a good fit depending on your needs and lifestyle. If you’re curious whether Hers could simplify your birth control routine, here’s what you should know.
Related reading: NURX vs SimpleHealth vs Wisp: Where to Get Birth Control Online
Hers makes getting birth control incredibly convenient, offering a fully online process with licensed providers and home delivery. It’s ideal for those who want to skip in-person appointments, but it’s not the best fit if you need a wide range of hormonal options or in-depth medical guidance. Overall, it’s a solid, affordable choice for straightforward birth control needs.
Hers Birth Control Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy online consultation—no doctor visit required
- Free shipping and discreet packaging
- Affordable monthly plans
- Automatic refills and renewals
- Access to licensed healthcare providers
Cons
- Limited selection of birth control types
- Not suitable for complex medical histories
- No in-person exams or lab tests
- Insurance not accepted (out-of-pocket only)
Our Experience with Hers Birth Control
Getting started with Hers was refreshingly simple. The intake process began with a short online questionnaire about my health history, current medications, and any previous experiences with birth control. It was detailed enough to feel thorough, but still quick—no long waits or confusing paperwork. Once I submitted it, a licensed OB/GYN reviewed my answers, and I received a personalized recommendation within 24 hours.
What stood out was that the consultation was completely free and handled by real medical professionals, not just a chatbot or generic algorithm. I was able to message the provider directly through the Hers platform to ask follow-up questions and get clarity on side effects and alternatives. From there, I was matched with a birth control option suited to my needs, and everything—from prescription to shipping—was taken care of without me having to leave home. It felt less transactional than other telehealth experiences I’ve had and more like a modern, streamlined version of a typical doctor’s visit.
Benefits of Hers Birth Control Pills
1. Preventing Pregnancy
At its core, birth control’s primary role is to prevent pregnancy, and Hers offers a solid lineup of FDA-approved combination and progestin-only pills to do just that. Most pills on Hers combine ethinyl estradiol (a form of estrogen) with a progestin like norethindrone acetate, drospirenone, or norgestimate, which work together to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining—making it harder for sperm to reach an egg.
Some popular formulations on Hers include:
- Levonorgestrel 0.1 mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.02 mg – a low-dose option for fewer side effects.
- Norethindrone 0.35 mg – a progestin-only “mini pill”, ideal for those who can’t take estrogen (e.g., breastfeeding moms or those at risk for blood clots).
- Drospirenone 3 mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.03 mg – known by brand names like Yasmin, this pill also offers added benefits like acne and mood regulation.
2. Reducing Period Pain
If cramps leave you curled up with a heating pad every month, many Hers birth control pills can help. Hormonal pills regulate ovulation and thin the uterine lining, which often results in lighter, less painful periods.
Helpful options include:
- Norethindrone acetate 1.5 mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.03 mg – a classic choice for easing cramping.
- Drospirenone 3 mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.02 mg – lower estrogen dose, still effective for pain.
- Norgestimate 0.25 mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.035 mg – often prescribed for painful or irregular periods.
3. Skipping Periods
Want to skip your period safely? With continuous or extended-cycle use, many of Hers’ pills allow you to do just that. By skipping the placebo pills and taking active pills back-to-back, you can avoid monthly bleeding.
Pills often used for this purpose include:
- Norethindrone acetate 1mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.02 mg (with or without ferrous fumarate) – great for extended use.
- Desogestrel 0.15 mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.02 mg + Ethinyl estradiol 0.01 mg – a triphasic pill that can be used to manipulate cycles.
4. Managing Heavy Periods
For those dealing with heavy bleeding, the right hormonal combination can drastically reduce flow and even prevent anemia.
Look into:
- Levonorgestrel 0.15 mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.03 mg + 0.01 mg – a biphasic pill that balances estrogen for heavy periods.
- Norgestimate-based pills like Norgestimate 0.18/0.215/0.25 mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.025 mg – often used for menorrhagia (heavy bleeding).
- Drospirenone 3 mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.03 mg – also helps reduce heavy flow due to its anti-mineralocorticoid effects.
5. Treating Acne
Certain birth control pills help regulate the hormones that trigger acne flare-ups, particularly those containing drospirenone or norgestimate, which block androgen activity.
Best options from Hers include:
- Drospirenone 3 mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.02 mg – commonly known as Yaz or Gianvi.
- Norgestimate 0.25 mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.035 mg – a go-to for dermatologists treating hormonal acne.
- Desogestrel combos – newer generation progestins that are often skin-friendly.
Related reading: How to Get Spironolactone Online for Acne & Hair Loss
6. Balancing Mood Changes
Hormonal fluctuations can trigger mood swings, and while every body reacts differently, some pills are formulated to help even things out. Drospirenone, in particular, has shown promise in reducing mood-related symptoms for some users.
Options worth considering:
- Drospirenone 3 mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.02 mg or 0.03 mg – often preferred by those with PMS or PMDD-like symptoms.
- Norethindrone acetate 1mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.02 mg – a lower-dose combo that’s gentler on mood for some users.
7. Relieving Menstrual Headaches
Estrogen drops during your cycle can trigger headaches or migraines in some people. Birth control pills that provide steady hormone levels or lower estrogen doses may help prevent these.
Helpful choices:
- Norethindrone acetate 1.5 mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.03 mg – consistent dosing may reduce cycle-related headaches.
- Progestin-only pill (Norethindrone 0.35 mg) – avoids estrogen altogether for migraine-sensitive users.
- Low-dose estrogen pills like Levonorgestrel 0.1 mg / Ethinyl estradiol 0.02 mg – reduce hormone fluctuations.
Hers Birth Control Pills: Pricing Overview
| Brand Name | Active Ingredients | Monthly Cost | Est. Cost per Pill | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lutera | Levonorgestrel / Ethinyl Estradiol 0.1/0.02 mg | $25 | ~$0.83 | Doctor-recommended, lighter periods |
| Junel 1.5/30 | Norethindrone Acetate / EE 1.5/0.03 mg | $25 | ~$0.83 | Eases PMS, standard monophasic combo |
| Junel Fe 1.5/30 | Norethindrone Acetate / EE + Iron | $30 | ~$1.00 | Helps iron deficiency, heavier flow users |
| Yasmin | Drospirenone / EE 3/0.03 mg | $25 | ~$0.83 | Acne-friendly, lighter periods |
| Yaz | Drospirenone / EE 3/0.02 mg | $30 | ~$1.00 | Popular for acne, mood-related symptoms |
| Sprintec | Norgestimate / EE 0.25/0.035 mg | $20 | ~$0.67 | Budget-friendly, good for PMS + acne |
| Tri-Lo-Sprintec | Norgestimate / EE triphasic (0.18–0.25 mg) | $30 | ~$1.00 | Lower hormone shifts, helpful for acne |
If you opt for a 3- or 6-month subscription, Hers offers discounted rates starting at $12/month, which brings the per-dose cost down significantly (as low as ~$0.40 per pill). All prices include free shipping and automatic refills.
Why We Recommend Hers for Birth Control Pills
1. Personalized Options for Your Specific Concerns
Whether you’re dealing with acne, painful periods, heavy bleeding, or just want reliable pregnancy prevention, Hers offers a variety of birth control pills tailored to your needs. You don’t have to guess—your doctor will recommend the best option based on your health profile and goals.
2. Free Online Doctor Consultation
Unlike some platforms that charge a fee just to speak with a provider, Hers includes a consultation with a licensed OB/GYN at no extra cost. It’s a hassle-free way to get expert advice without a clinic visit.
3. Convenient, Flexible Subscriptions
Hers makes staying on track easy with monthly or multi-month subscriptions. You can save more with extended plans (as low as $12/month), and your medication is automatically refilled and shipped—no pharmacy lines or last-minute runs.
4. Discreet and Reliable Delivery
All prescriptions arrive in plain packaging, shipped directly to your door. It’s ideal for anyone who wants privacy, convenience, and dependable service without interruption to their routine.
Hers Birth Control Pills: Common Side Effects
1. Levonorgestrel-Based Pills
(e.g., Lutera)
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Breakthrough bleeding (especially in the first few months)
- Headaches
- Mood swings
2. Norethindrone Acetate-Based Pills
(e.g., Junel 1.5/30, Junel Fe 1.5/30)
- Bloating
- Breast tenderness
- Changes in libido
- Spotting between periods
- Mild nausea
3. Drospirenone-Based Pills
(e.g., Yasmin, Yaz)
- Increased risk of blood clots (especially for smokers or over age 35)
- Mood changes (can be positive or negative)
- Headaches
- Breast swelling
- Elevated potassium levels (rare, but possible)
4. Norgestimate-Based Pills
(e.g., Sprintec, Tri-Lo-Sprintec)
- Acne (may worsen before it improves)
- Spotting or missed periods
- Weight changes (mostly water retention)
- Mild nausea
- Breast tenderness
5. Progestin-Only Pill (POP)
(e.g., Norethindrone 0.35 mg)
- Irregular bleeding or spotting
- Ovarian cysts (in rare cases)
- Headaches
- Changes in mood or libido
- Must be taken at the same time every day to be effective
Hers vs. Nurx. vs. Wisp | Hers | Nurx |
|---|---|---|
| Price | As low as $12/month | Starting at $15/pack |
| Prescribes for | Preventing Pregnancy Fighting Acne Reducing PMS Lighter and Skipping Periods | Preventing Pregnancy Fighting Acne Reducing PMS Lighter and Skipping Periods |
| Types of birth control pills | Combination Pills Progestin-Only Pills | Combination Pills Progestin-Only Pills |
| Other birth control options | ❌ | Vaginal Ring Birth Control Patch |
| Free doctor's consultation? | ✅ | ❌ $30 fee |
| Free shipping? | ✅ | ✅ |
| Easy refills? | ✅ | ✅ |
| Same-day pickup at pharmacy? | ❌ | ❌ |
| Available in all 50 US states? | ✅ | ❌ |
| Website |
Hers vs. Nurx
Hers and Nurx both offer convenient, online access to birth control, but they differ in pricing, options, and flexibility. Hers stands out for its low starting cost (as little as $12/month with multi-month plans), free consultations, and a simple prescription process. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for standard combination or progestin-only pills without the need for extra features. On the other hand, Nurx offers a slightly wider range of options—including the birth control patch and vaginal ring—but charges a $30 consultation fee and doesn’t always offer free shipping. If budget and simplicity are your top priorities, Hers is likely the better pick; if you want more birth control types and don’t mind a small fee, Nurx gives you that flexibility.
Related reading: Hers vs. Nurx: Compare the Best Online Birth Control Subscriptions
The Verdict: Is Hers Birth Control Worth It?
Hers makes getting birth control simple, discreet, and doctor-guided—ideal for anyone looking to skip the clinic without sacrificing care. With a wide range of trusted, FDA-approved pills and a free consultation with licensed OB/GYNs, Hers stands out for making birth control both accessible and tailored to your needs. Subscriptions are flexible, shipping is free, and refills happen automatically—so you never run out.
While Hers doesn’t accept insurance, its transparent pricing (as low as $12/month with extended plans) makes it a budget-friendly alternative to traditional appointments and pharmacy visits. For those seeking reliable contraception without the runaround, Hers is a modern, no-stress solution.
Hers Birth Control FAQs
Do I need a prior prescription to use Hers?
No, you don’t need a prescription beforehand. Hers provides one after your online consultation if you’re approved.
Can I switch pills if I experience side effects?
Yes, you can message your provider through the Hers platform to request a different option if your current pill isn’t working for you.
How long does it take to get my birth control?
Most orders ship within a few days after the doctor approves your treatment. Shipping is free and discreet.
Can I cancel my Hers subscription anytime?
Yes, you can pause or cancel your subscription at any time through your account settings—no cancellation fees.
Methodology
To evaluate Hers birth control, we conducted thorough research into the platform’s pricing, treatment options, accessibility, and overall user experience. This included comparing Hers to other leading telehealth providers like Nurx and Wisp that offer hormonal contraceptives.
We analyzed factors such as monthly cost, consultation process, pill variety (including combination and progestin-only options), prescription flexibility, shipping speed, and ease of subscription management. We also reviewed user feedback, medical provider access, side effect support, and the ability to switch medications. Hers stood out for its transparent pricing, doctor-guided personalization, and convenient, subscription-based model—all designed to streamline access to safe, effective birth control from home.
Review Process Key Metrics Weighting Sign up online - ease to complete intake form
- affordability
- upfront commitment or subscription required?
- money back guarantee or refund policy?0.5 Vitual consult with provider / determine eligibility - ease to get appointment to determine eligibility
- need to leave house for labs or other in-person care?1 Shipping + unboxing - shipping cost
- time from order to treatment delivery
- discreet packaging to maintain privacy0.5 Test + journal for 1-3 months - ease of application
- transition into habitual use
- taste / smell / feel / pain1.5 Results after 3 months of use - efficacy / results
- lack of side effects
- ease of refill / reordering
- quality of ongoing clinical support
- responsive customer support
- willingness to recommend to a friend1.5
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