Lots of things that are generally considered safe can have potentially serious side effects. Some of these are available over the counter. This doesn't mean the

Lots of things that are generally considered safe can have potentially serious side effects. Some of these are available over the counter. This doesn't mean they aren't really safe, it means that some folks have bad experiences. It isn't just that it is safer than being pregnant. It is seriously better for some folks to take birth control because of the severity of their monthly cycle. Some folks can't take tylenol. Ibuprofen can cause ulcers. Folks take heartburn pills (such as Prilosec) without being diagnosed. A body can form a dependence on certain laxatives. This doesn't mean they aren't generally safe for folks when used properly. Having some of these only available after talking to a pharmacist shouldn't shouldn't be a big deal, especially if you have to get the first dose with a prescription from the doctor. What isn't reasonable is folks having to have an actual visit to the doctor every time a prescription runs out. It isn't reasonable to force people to have unnecessary pap screens to get birth control either - so long as your tests are normal and you aren't having other issues, there is no reason to have one every year even. Every 3 years tends to work out just fine.