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Opill® Launches a Multi-State College Tour

In an effort to break down barriers surrounding birth control access, Opill®, the first daily birth control pill available over-the-counter in the United States, has kicked off an educational campaign across college campuses. The initiative forms part of a broader commitment by Opill® in collaboration with the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and the Black Women’s Health Imperative (BWHI) to enhance reproductive health education.

The campaign, branded as Level The Court, seeks to target specific communities, particularly focusing on Black women and girls, who historically have faced challenges in accessing reproductive health resources. Starting in Florida, the tour will encompass visits to 15 universities, including a significant event set for February 25, 2025, at the University of South Carolina.

A Collaborative Effort

Leila Bahbah, the U.S. Women's Health Brand Lead at Perrigo, emphasized the importance of these discussions on reproductive health and contraception. “It is more important now than ever to educate about reproductive health and contraception options,” she stated, highlighting the organization’s commitment to creating a solid informational foundation. The initiative is expected to set a tone of awareness and preparedness for college students, showcasing that Opill® is a safe and effective option.

As part of this outreach, several events are planned in partnership with WNBA players, who will engage directly with students to discuss the importance of reproductive health. Hannah Berner, a well-known comedian and Giggly Squad host, joins the campaign to advocate for easy access to safe contraceptive options, saying, “I want everyone to know that there is a safe and effective over-the-counter birth control option in Opill®.”

Addressing Health Disparities

The Level The Court initiative has been designed not only for education but also to establish health equity for underserved populations. Zsanai Epps, BWHI’s Senior Director of Reproductive Health Initiatives, pointed out the longstanding barriers that Black women face regarding reproductive health services. To combat these disparities, a dedicated webpage has launched on WNBA.com, providing personal stories, FAQs, and ways to access Opill® at little to no cost.

A significant part of the initiative includes the creation of the BWHI Opill® Access Fund, which aims to supply a three-month supply of Opill® to Black women experiencing temporary challenges. This fund represents a step toward addressing the urgent need for accessible reproductive health resources in communities that need them most.

Focused on Education

Throughout the spring semester, as part of the wider campaign, multiple activations will occur at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), coupling education with engagement through various events – including giveaways, DJ performances, and interactive games. The initiative intends to drive a significant impact on student awareness regarding birth control options and reproductive health.

Opill® is particularly keen on targeting states with stringent reproductive health laws. This focus will allow the brand to reach out to students from a vast array of educational institutions, recognizing that nearly six million students are currently studying in states with limited access to reproductive services.

Conclusion

With the multi-state campus tour underway, Opill® not only aims to educate but also to empower students, opening discussions around reproductive health that have often been avoided. By collaborating with influential organizations and figures in the health and sports community, Opill® is making strides toward a more equitable future in reproductive health access for all.