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Birth control pills in Germany: When are they covered by public health insurance?
Birth control pills (Antibabypille) are among the most commonly used contraceptives in Germany. Whether their cost is covered by public health insurance (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung – GKV) depends mainly on the woman’s age and, in some cases, on medical reasons.
When does health insurance pay for the pill?
| Group | Covered? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Girls under 18 | Yes, fully covered | No co-payment (no Zuzahlung) |
| Women aged 18 to 22 | Yes, with small co-pay | Only the statutory co-payment (about 5–10 €) |
| Women over 22 | No, except for medical use | Full price must be paid unless there is a medical indication |
Exceptions: Medical indications
If birth control pills are prescribed not only for contraception, but for therapeutic reasons, for example:
-
treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS),
-
treatment of severe menstrual cycle disorders or hormonal problems,
then:
-
the GKV may cover the cost even after the age of 22,
-
provided the medical reason is clearly stated on the prescription or in a medical report.
It is recommended to ask the gynaecologist for an additional written report explaining the indication in detail.
What kind of prescription is needed?
-
Pink prescription (rosa Rezept)
→ Public insurance pays (usually up to your 22nd birthday). -
Blue prescription (blaues Rezept / private prescription)
→ You pay the full cost yourself (typical for women over 22 without special indication). -
Green prescription
→ A recommendation only – no coverage by public insurance.
Can you buy the pill without a prescription?
No.
Birth control pills in Germany are prescription-only, even if you intend to pay entirely out of pocket.
How much do the pills cost without coverage?
Depending on brand and formulation, the usual cost is:
-
around 5 to 25 euros per month,
-
some practices or pharmacies offer 3- or 6-month packs at a slightly reduced overall price.
Summary by age
| Age group | Insurance coverage |
|---|---|
| Up to 18 | 100% covered by public insurance |
| 18–22 | Covered, with a small co-payment |
| Over 22 | Only covered for clear medical reasons |
The editorial team of this website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and multiple sources. However, errors or incomplete data may still occur. The contents of this article are therefore intended as preliminary guidance only. For binding and up-to-date information, please always consult the relevant authorities, health insurance funds, and qualified medical or legal professionals.
