Dear Reader,

The Internet has created a new world of commercial opportunity. This is not always a good thing. Just as alligators weren't meant to be house pets, prescription medications may not be safe for everyone who has on-line access and a credit card. Even though oral contraceptives are safe and effective for millions of women, others risk illness, or possibly other complications, by popping the pill. It takes a medical professional to assess whether or not the birth control pill, or any other prescribed drug, is okay for a particular woman to use based on her medical and her family's medical history.

Despite these facts, there are places on the Internet that will sell oral contraceptives without a prescription. But, they will not be able to determine if you have high blood pressure, a history of blood clots, liver disease, or other conditions that could endanger your health if you take the pill. If the convenience, and possibly cost-savings, of purchasing the pill and other prescriptions over the Internet is attractive to you, make sure the site's pharmacy requires a valid prescription and other info from you in order to proceed with dispensing them. Keep in mind that even if you've had a prescription for the pill in the past, the state of your health can change. That's why prescriptions expire or run out, so that your health care provider can reassess and follow-up on your new needs.

If money is an issue for you, or if you don't have health insurance, there are organizations that operate on a sliding scale and will provide free or low-cost health care and prescriptions. If convenience is an issue, keep in mind that it's your health, which is worth the extra effort. If you're a Columbia student, certain oral contraceptives are available at a reduced cost through Health Services. If you're not at Columbia, start with Planned Parenthood by calling 800.230.PLAN (-7526) to find a clinic near you.

Alice

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