Our society has gradually accepted women’s independence, equal rights, and choice and say in all matters of life. But with all the acceptance, freedom and the right to make decisions, women still struggle when it comes to contraception issues.
Women are exploring sexuality, no longer bound by the adage ‘sex is only for procreation’. Even in what we consider as ‘healthy relationships’, the burden of contraception lies with women. Men can still get away with the consequences of unprotected sex, but women have to be vigilant.
Although we have started using condoms regularly, still there is always an itch in men wherein they want to go bare for their sexual fulfilment. And with the easy availability of emergency contraceptives men often overlook the importance of contraception, especially when it comes to women’s health. Do men realise the hormonal changes a woman’s body goes through every month? Do men understand that contraceptives can have a lot of side effects on women’s body and wellbeing?
Even other contraception methods like IUD can cause a lot of problems. Some of the adverse effects women face are excessive bleeding, cramps, nausea, bloating, body ache, weakness, stress etc.
Men need to understand women’s bodies not only in terms of anatomy but also regarding the hormonal changes women undergo; right from menarche, through puberty, pregnancy and menopause. We cannot overlook the complications that come with these biological processes.
So, men, please be there for your partner; don’t just expect her to take care of contraception. Talk to her about her fears, her expectations and consult a doctor about the right choice for both of you. Emergency contraceptives are a boon for those accidents when you forget the pill or when a condom breaks, but they cannot be a substitute, as long-term use can be hazardous to women’s health. Do not misuse this method; it is meant to be Plan B; never make it your Plan A.
Dear men, a woman’s health does not come second to your pleasure. Contraception is not just women’s responsibility; men should share the stress too.