What is the 'burden' of birth control?
Preventing pregnancy has physical, emotional, and financial costs to it. And the burden of birth control is often placed disproportionately on people who can become pregnant.
The Physical Burden:
Different types of birth control have different physical effects on the body. For example, hormonal contraceptives like the pill, patch, or intrauterine devices (IUDs) can cause side effects such as weight gain, nausea, headaches, and mood changes. Some people may also experience pain or discomfort when using certain types of contraceptives, such as the contraceptive implant or diaphragm. Condoms can also cause discomfort if they're made with common irritants like spermicides, fragrances, flavors, etc.
The Emotional Burden:
Birth control can also take an emotional toll on folks who do not want to become pregnant. Some people may experience anxiety or stress related to the use of contraception, such as worrying about forgetting to take a pill or having to convince their partner to use a condom. Some people may even feel guilty or conflicted about their use of birth control, particularly if it conflicts with their religious or cultural beliefs.
The Financial Burden:
The access & cost of contraception can also be a financial burden, particularly for those without insurance or who live in areas with limited access to healthcare. Contraceptive methods like the pill or IUD can be expensive, and insurance coverage for birth control can vary depending on the individual's plan and location. Additionally, the cost of regular appointments for check-ups and prescription refills can add up over time.
Overall, the physical, emotional, and financial burden of birth control can vary depending on the individual and the method used. It is important to recognize the different ways in which birth control can be burdensome and to work towards improving access and reducing the barriers to using effective contraception.
Share The Responsibility!
Pregnancy prevention should be a shared responsibility! If you’re in an intimate relationship with someone who is trying to prevent unplanned pregnancy, there are things you can do to help carry the burden.
1. Buy, carry, and use condoms!
Aside from a vasectomy, condoms are the only other form of birth control for penis-owners. Purchasing condoms, having them on-hand, and encouraging the use of them is a great way to share the burden of birth control with your partner.
If you’re looking for a comfy option for you and your partner - Slipp is made without the use of common irritants like flavors, textures, spermicides, or glycerin.
2. Lend your time & money
Consider splitting or covering the cost of their contraception. For example, you could take turns purchasing condoms (or always be the one to purchase them). You could also pitch in on the cost of their hormonal birth control (i.e. the pill) or cover the cost of Plan B if it's needed (and even pick it up for them!)
3. Educate yourself
Take the time to educate yourself on reproductive health and the different contraception options and how they work. The more knowledgeable you are about contraception, the more you can take an active role in preventing unintended pregnancies by using condoms, supporting your partner's use of contraception, and practicing safe sex.
In Conclusion...
Ultimately, it is important to recognize that preventing pregnancies is a shared responsibility. Men can help play a role in sharing the burden of birth control so that the burden is not disproportionately put on the person who can get pregnant.