For many women, the birth control pill is a sign of feminism. Developed to be a way for women to take control of contraception themselves, the birth control pill was an empowering development that stopped women from having to depend on males for contraception.
However, "Sweetening the Pill: or How we Get Hooked on Hormonal Birth Control" by Holly Grigg-Spall is claiming that the birth control pill is both sexist and dangerous. This book reduces birth control to something that stops the female body's natural cycles so they are available for sex at any time, and won't miss any days of work due to menstrual symptoms. Last time I checked, birth control is a choice. For women who aren't ready for - or don't want to have - kids, birth control is a way of taking control of their bodies.
Birth control is also something that is more effective than condoms. According to Planned Parenthood, 6% of women get pregnant while on the pill, while 15% of women get pregnant while using condoms. This proves that birth control is an effective method that women should have the right to choose.
And that claim about birth control being dangerous? Total bogus. Multiple, extensive trials have found that birth control pills when compared to a placebo don't cause weight gain, depression, or headaches. Like any medication, birth control can cause side effects. That's why it's up to the individual to choose if this method is right for her, and weigh the positives with the negatives.
Tell Zero Books to not publish a book claiming that birth control is sexist and dangerous! We're in the 21st century - let's move forward in women's rights, not backwards.
