Requirements or incentives by government for the use of long-acting contraceptives

Article Abstract:

The civil rights of women ordered by the court to use the long-acting contraceptive levonorgestrel, or Norplant, may be violated. The Norplant Contraceptive System consists of capsules implanted in a woman's upper arm that release levonorgestrel over a three- to five-year period. A California woman convicted of child abuse was ordered by a court to use Norplant, and a Kansas legislator has proposed that women on welfare be paid to use Norplant. Court-ordered use of long-acting contraceptives violates an individual's right to refuse medical treatment and to reproduce, and the Eighth Amendment prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment. The state may interfere with an individual's civil rights to further a compelling interest. But court-ordered contraception to prevent child abuse may discriminate against minorities and the poor. Offering women on welfare financial incentive to use long-acting contraceptives may increase access to birth control for poor women. But women should not be required to assume the health risks associated with the use of birth control hormones in exchange for welfare payments.

Laws, regulations and rules, Norplant (Contraceptive), Contraceptive drug implants

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Even as new options emerge, gynecologists urge women to find older contraceptives user-friendly

Article Abstract:

Physicians need to encourage their female patients to use contraceptives. Many physicians warn their patients about potential complications from using contraceptives but fail to tell them about the benefits. One study found that half of the women followed forgot to take 1 or more pills during their cycle. Women who incorporated the pill into some kind of routine were more likely to be compliant. Few US women use intrauterine devices even though they are very effective. This may be due to concerns about infection, but newer designs should reduce that risk.

Usage, Prevention, Pregnancy, Contraceptives

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Oral Contraceptives and Women's Health in Japan

Article Abstract:

Japan approved the use of low-dose oral contraceptives (OCs) in June 1999, after more than 35 years of procrastination. A high-dose OC was first approved in the US in 1960. However, Japanese officials refused to approve OCs of any kind because of concerns about sexual immorality, loss of income from abortions and condom sales, and concern about side effects. Over a period of 35 years, the government ignored the health needs of women. However, OCs proved to be relatively safe, particularly the third-generation OCs that contain lower doses of estrogen.

Japan, Political aspects, Oral contraceptives

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