Taking the oral contraceptive pill is about to get a whole lot cheaper for some Australian women, with another option added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

From Saturday, two popular choices of the contraceptive pill, Yasmin and Yaz, will be subsidised through the PBS, slashing the price paid by women by more than half.

It is the first oral contraceptive listed on the PBS in over 30 years and comes as part of the Albanese government’s pledge earlier this month to spend more than half a billion dollars on women’s health programs.

Yasmin and Yaz are oral contraceptives which are often prescribed for women who experience outbreaks of acne, fluid retention or weight gain. 

The two contraceptives are different to other forms of the pill in that they contain a type of progesterone called drospirenone.

This type of progesterone, when combined with ethinylestradiol (the female hormone oestrogen), can help reduce acne, while also working as a contraceptive.

Yasmin and Yaz are also sometimes prescribed to women who cannot tolerate the type of progesterone used in older oral contraceptive pills due to headaches, breast soreness and mood changes

Currently, typically charge around $79 for a three-month supply of Yaz and Yasmin.

However, from March 1, women will be able to buy the same three-month supply for $31.60, a saving of around $190 a year.

For those who have a concession card, Yaz and Yasmin will cost just $7.70 per three months or $30.80 per year.

Dr Talat Uppal, a gynaecologist and Director of Women’s Health Road in Sydney said the new PBS listing would mean more affordable options to help women manage their reproductive health.

“The PBS listing of Yaz and Yasmin is a milestone moment, ensuring more women can access contraceptive options that best suit their health, lifestyle and future plans – without cost being a deciding factor.

“Greater affordability means greater choice, empowering women to make more informed decisions about their reproductive needs.

“This marks a significant step towards greater equity in women’s health.”