Does TRICARE cover birth control?

TRICARE covers all FDA-approved contraceptive methods as a preventive care benefit under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) provisions, meaning most beneficiaries pay no cost-share when using a network provider. Covered methods include oral contraceptive pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs including hormonal and copper), contraceptive implants (Nexplanon), injectable contraceptives (Depo-Provera), contraceptive patches, vaginal rings, diaphragms, cervical caps, spermicides, emergency contraception (Plan B and ella), and female sterilization procedures (tubal ligation). Contraceptive counseling and related office visits are also covered at no cost. Prescriptions for contraceptives can be filled at military pharmacies at no cost, through TRICARE retail network pharmacies, or via home delivery. Brand-name contraceptives may require a generic alternative unless the prescriber documents medical necessity for the brand. Male condoms and male sterilization (vasectomy) are covered but may have standard copays rather than zero cost-share preventive care treatment.