It may seem like a modern marvel, but in reality, birth control has been around for a very long time. The earliest and safest form of birth control, the condom, dates back to around 3000 B.C.. It wasn’t until 1972 that distribution of birth control became legal and available to all women in the United States.
Today there are many types of contraceptives. The most common type of birth control is the pill. There are several variations of the pill, including the combination pill, progestin-only pill, and the three-month/extended pill. As long as you remember to take the pill every day, it’s an easy and inexpensive method. Sometimes the pill can fix hormonal issues which lead to heavy or irregular periods. However, remembering to take the pill every day can be challenging for some women. Another down side is that the pill often comes with side effects like headaches, weight gain, mood changes, and decreased libido.
Other contraceptives can be inserted vaginally. Vaginal rings are inserted once a month for three weeks and then removed during menstruation. IUD’s, T-shaped devices that contain copper, can last approximately ten years after being inserted into the uterus. While both methods make you feel pretty secure, keep in mind that the insertion process can be physically and financially burdensome. Just getting a IUD removed can cost five hundred dollars!
Although birth control is becoming less taboo, many women still face criticism. Some individuals and organizations view birth control as a serious health hazard or a form of abortion.
It took a lot of research, conversations with doctors, and contemplation before I finally decided to go on the pill. I’ve struggled with hormonal imbalances since late puberty, and I thought birth control would send my body over the edge. I was scared, but I was even more scared that I could get pregnant. I decided on the combination pill because I could stop taking it at any time and my health insurance covered the expenses. I didn’t start it too long ago, but so far I haven’t had any issues. In fact, I’m much less moody and uncomfortable during my period!
In my opinion, birth control is not a form of abortion. I define abortion as “the deliberate termination of a human pregnancy.” Birth control does not terminate an existing pregnancy, but rather prevents a sperm from fertilizing an egg.
Lastly, I think that all women should be in control of their own bodies. We have the right to be sexually active and prevent pregnancy.
This article is based on my own experience, research, and opinion. Please talk to your physician and conduct plenty of research if birth control is something that interests you.