Medicaid recipients in Indiana could have more access to birth control under legislation passed by a House committee. However, advocates said an amendment limits people’s options to just a few birth control methods.

Individuals rely on birth control to treat a host of medical conditions. But birth control has become a hot-button issue, embroiled in political debates. And that worries some patients and providers about future access to the medications.

Since Indiana's near-total abortion ban went into effect more than a year ago, some reproductive health care providers said they’ve had to adjust the conversations they have with patients about birth control. Some providers said the few, narrow exceptions under the ban make care difficult to access, which they said makes knowing which contraceptive options are available is even more important.

A new vending machine provides free emergency contraception on the near east side of Indianapolis, as part of a collaboration between Indiana reproductive justice groups and a local business.

More people are seeking vasectomies following the overturn of Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood centers want to meet that demand in more parts of the state. Planned Parenthood will offer vasectomy services at four locations across Indiana.

Pharmacists in Indiana can prescribe birth control under state legislation now in effect.

House Bill 1568 would allow pharmacists to prescribe hormonal birth control to people 18 and older without having to see a health care provider first.

The Indiana House Committee on Public Health has unanimously approved House Bill 1568, which would allow pharmacists to prescribe hormonal birth control without an appointment.

Some Indiana lawmakers and health care professionals are continuing calls for better access to birth control, less than a month before the state’s near-total abortion ban takes effect.

The program is open to anyone in the state and covers all types and brands of birth control.