Birth Control as a Method of Family Planning
Family Planning Through the Use of Contraception
The concept of family planning is the providing of access to the means of controlling the rate and timing of reproduction. Because childbirth can be trying upon the finances of a family, and upon the physical and mental health of a woman, family planning is used as a means of gaining control of if, when and how many children to have. This may be achieved through different methods of contraception.
The Significance of Family Planning
The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention state that family planning contributes to improved infant, child and female health, and that it improves the social and economic status of women.
The United States Agency for National Development cites family planning and contraceptive methods as assisting the fight against HIV/AIDS, reduction in abortions and protection of the environment through stabilization of population growth.
The History of Birth Control as Family Planning
An American nurse, Margaret Sanger, is often cited as initiating the modern birth control movement. Sanger was concerned about the adverse effects upon a woman’s health of multiple pregnancies, miscarriages and illegal abortions. According to New York University, Sanger was involved with several birth control organizations and was the founder of the American Birth Control League, which eventually became Planned Parenthood.
Short Term Methods of Contraception
Today, a wide range of birth control options is available. The barrier method prevents the male sperm from reaching the female reproductive tract and can be practiced by the use of condoms, the cervical sponge, the cervical cap or the diaphragm.
The hormonal contraceptive method works by preventing ovulation in the female body. This method may be practiced by use of the contraceptive pill, the "patch," the contraceptive vaginal ring or by monthly injection.
The final method of birth control is emergency contraception, the “morning after” pill, which can be taken up to five days after sex. Contrary to some misconceptions, emergency contraception does not induce an abortion; rather, it prevents conception from occurring.
Long Term Methods of Contraception
Long-term methods of contraception include the intrauterine device (IUD), a device inserted into the uterus that is effective for 5-10 years. Sterilization is a permanent option for couples that are certain that they do not wish to reproduce. The female may undergo tubal ligation, and the male can choose a vasectomy.
Family Planning Centers such as Planned Parenthood are trained to assist in making the decision between each method.
References:
NYU: Margaret Sanger Papers Project
Birth Control Method is an Important Decision
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