Women's Morality Questioned in the Debate Surrounding Contraception Coverage

This past week, a report issued by the Institute of Medicine titled Clinical Preventative Services for Women: Closing the Gap, sparked controversy over the recommendation that all health insurance plans should cover the cost of contraception. At the heart of the debate is the idea that women with reproductive capacity should be provided with access to contraceptive methods, education and counseling.

After researching the proposal and reading news coverage from the last few days, I was troubled, though not surprised, to learn that opponents of this proposal were focused on the morality of women instead of the importance of providing preventative health measures. Some of the outrageous claims have included a statement calling for women to stop having irresponsible sex and the notion that pregnancy is often the result of being drunk and not using birth control.

Focusing on the morality of women belies the integral role comprehensive family planning measures play in ensuring that all women, regardless of their economic status, have access to preventative and primary care services. In fact, according to the Institute of Medicine’s report, cost sharing requirements such as deductibles and copayments often pose barriers to care particularly for low-income women.

An article written by State Representative Lois Capps (CA-23), a long time proponent of sound women’s health policy, entitled A Victory for Women’s Health outlines the importance of providing preventative health services for women. She states “Despite these clear benefits, the cost of contraceptive methods can force far too many women to choose a less reliable method, or forgo any form of birth control at all. Several studies indicate costs -- including co-payments and other cost-sharing requirements--play a key role in the contraceptive behavior of substantial numbers of U.S. women. During tough economic times like these, the number of women affected is larger than ever. Eliminating cost sharing and co-pays would give these women much needed peace of mind.”

Below is an excerpt from the article outlining the recommendations listed by Institute of Medicine:

• Screening for gestational diabetes in pregnant women between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation and at the first prenatal visit for pregnant women identified to be at high risk for diabetes;

• High-risk human papillomavirus DNA testing, in addition to conventional cytology testing in women with normal cytology results;

• Annual counseling on sexually transmitted infections for all sexually active women;

• Counseling and screening for human immunodeficiency virus infection on an annual basis for sexually active women;

• Comprehensive lactation support and counseling and costs of renting breastfeeding equipment;

• Screening and counseling for interpersonal and domestic violence;

• At least one well-woman preventive care visit annually for adult women to obtain the recommended preventive services, including preconception and prenatal care.

Instead of focusing on individual morality, this proposal is based on scientific principles and offers recommendations which will benefit all women throughout the United States.