Reproductive rights are women’s rights, as they are important for women’s socioeconomic well-being and overall health. According to research, having control over one’s reproductive choices and the timing of motherhood is linked to more stable and fulfilling relationships, more work experience among women, higher income, and average career earnings. Reproductive rights matter because they give everyone access to secure reproductive health care. If your rights are restricted, you might be unable to decide about pregnancy or whether to use birth control. This could result in unintended pregnancies, frequently brought on by rape or incest, difficulties during pregnancy that could cause the mother’s death or even HIV. Thus, spreading awareness about reproductive freedom and contraceptive choices is essential.
World Contraception Day is celebrated every year on the 26th of September. The campaign aims to create awareness regarding safe sex, reproductive rights, and sexual health. The vision of the annual campaign is to strive for a world where every pregnancy is wanted. For women, awareness regarding contraception is fundamental. It helps them recognize their reproductive rights and decide if they wish to have a child or not. In a conservative society like India, where topics like sex are still taboo, spreading awareness regarding contraception is even more crucial. Responsibility for pregnancy still mainly falls on women, and contraception helps take control of your life. It helps women make informed decisions and empower themselves with the right information.
On this World Contraception Day, DocVita spoke to Dr. Astha Jain Mathur, an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist practicing in Indore. It was a privilege to learn about contraception and safe sex from an expert like herself. Dr. Jain Mathur started the session by explaining how contraception is not “one size fits all” and is different for each individual. She explained that your birth control choice should be based on your health, family health history, lifestyle, and goals. She added that you should consult a medical professional before making any decision.
The Barrier Method
Dr. Astha introduced us to the first method of contraception, the barrier method. Barrier methods act as birth control by blocking the sperm from entering the uterus. This method includes using condoms, dental dams, cervical caps, spermicidal foam, sponges, film, and diaphragms. Unlike other forms of birth control, barrier methods are used only when you have sexual intercourse. Be sure to read the instructions before using a barrier method. You must use a barrier method correctly every time you have sex. As per Dr. Jain Mathur, this method is the only birth control method to offer protection from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Oral Contraception
The next method of birth control Dr. Astha introduced us to was one most preferred by women – oral contraception. Many types of reproductive health care options and procedures are available to women. These options’ specific requirements and availability can vary depending on a woman’s circumstances. One of the most common and effective types of reproductive health care is oral contraception, also known as “the pill.” Oral contraception is a type of medication taken by mouth to prevent pregnancy. It works by stopping the ovaries from releasing eggs, thickening the cervical mucus to make it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg, and thinning the lining of the uterus to make it less likely for a fertilized egg to implant. The different types of oral contraceptives can be prescribed by a healthcare provider or purchased over the counter. The specific requirements for oral contraceptives vary depending on the type of pill used. For example, some pills must be taken daily to be effective, while others must only be taken once a week. Some pills must be taken at the same time every day, while others can be taken at any time during the day. It is essential to talk to a healthcare provider about which type of oral contraceptive is right for you and to follow the instructions for taking the pill exactly as prescribed.
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
The next birth control method Dr. Astha Jain Mathur discussed was the Intrauterine Devices (IUDs). These are a form of birth control used by women to prevent pregnancy. IUDs are T-shaped plastic devices inserted into the uterus by a trained healthcare professional. Some hormonal devices can be removed to avoid pregnancy for up to 5 years. A hormonal IUD coated with medicine regularly secretes the medication in the womb. Others have copper wires attached and can be left in place for up to 5 years. A copper IUD increases copper ions in the cervical mucus and acts as a spermicide. IUDs may be implanted or removed within a doctor’s office or at home after a doctor has given a patient a prescription. The devices are 99% effective at preventing pregnancy in the first year of use and 99. 9% effective at preventing pregnancy after the first year. They are suitable for all women regardless of age, body mass index, or prior childbirth.
However, due to many misconceptions and stigma around the IUD, many women in India do not prefer it as it is invasive, added Dr. Jain Mathur. She clarified that while IUDs have side effects like all contraception, the pros far outweigh the cons.
Irreversible Methods
The gynecologist talked about the next method of birth control is the permanent, irreversible one. Dr. Astha told us that this method is advised to women who have completed their families and whose youngest child is at least five years old. Doctors recommend this method for women with health conditions whose pregnancy can risk their lives. It is also advised for women who cannot follow up with doctors regularly.
For Women with PCOS and Endometriosis
Addressing the concerns of women with conditions like endometriosis and PCOS, Dr. Jain Mathur said that these conditions do not limit a woman’s birth control options. Short-term treatment of pills can help women manage their conditions. PCOS is a condition caused by hormonal imbalance, and the proper medications for a short duration might set their hormones into the rhythm again.
Sexual Freedom and Informed Choices
It is crucial to discuss women’s freedom to make their own decisions, speak out against discrimination, and remove any obstacles that stand in the way of them exercising that right. Sexual and reproductive freedoms for women are essential and fundamental to who they are as women. The freedom to exercise this right cannot be taken away from them. Empowering women to make educated decisions and involving men in the discussion are the first steps toward change. Giving women the freedom to choose if, when, and how many children they want is time.
It is important to discuss IUDs, pills, and condoms and include men in the discussion of contraception. Of course, schools should cover this in sex education, but parents can also start small at home. Men’s participation in discussions concerning women’s sexual and reproductive health can also be crucial in helping couples get past their uncertainty and reluctance to bring up these topics. We need to instill an attitude of equal involvement to ensure that women’s views are not drowned out by the cacophony of their spouses and families. These small changes can make a tremendous difference in ensuring that everyone has an equal voice in choices affecting their sexual and reproductive rights.
Women should be able to make educated decisions about family planning so that they are prepared physically, intellectually, and emotionally for each pregnancy and receive information on safe, protected sex and available contraceptive techniques. In India, many women are not aware that they can avail contraceptives. There is a lack of information amongst the general public, especially amongst females in tier-2 cities and rural areas. Often, the onus is on the doctors to counsel their patients and inform them about birth control options.
Therefore, women must begin to take control of their lives, claim their sexual freedom and make informed choices regarding their bodies. There is a plethora of birth control options. There are ample resources and support groups online where one can discuss and educate themselves about birth control options. The first step in breaking the taboo surrounding sex and contraception is starting the conversation. Know your body, protect yourself and consult a medical expert.
“DocVita is a great platform for women,” added Dr. Jain Mathur. “The anonymity and distance help women consult experienced doctors more comfortably. Women are visibly more relaxed and comfortable over the screen, where we can inform the patient about their choices.”
Contraception enables women to take control of their bodies. It helps them claim their sexual freedom and empowers them to make informed choices. Before making a choice, it is essential to consult an experienced doctor, many of who you can consult from the comfort of your home through DocVita. On World Contraception Day, we would like to thank Dr. Astha Jain Mathur for speaking to us and helping raise awareness to empower women.