Cultural Contraception

November has been a knowledge saturated month for me - i've indulged in learning across the spectrum of women's reproductive health: from embarking on a moon mysteries journey to better understanding my cycle to discussions on abortion rights and the high rates of eclampsia and obstetric fistulas leading to mortality and morbidity of women and infants in Africa. Alongside my new course in contraceptive management, my experiences this month have opened a new window into the complexities of the female experience - both that which is shared by all women across the globe and that which is so immensely different.

This continuum of reproductive health continues to challenge, intrigue and excite me. The mystery and significance of the menstrual cycle...the challenges and constraints of contraception...the significance of conception and the decisions, joys, burdens that come with that...and, the sheer magnitude of the act of birth and the vast array of ideals as to how to best execute that experience.

Lately, I have been particularly fired up about the potentially traumatic and devastating consequences of unplanned pregnancies. I have been on a mission to better understand why contraception works for some people and not others, what works for whom, and who gets access to what.

This multi-facted question deserves an equally tiered response - one that acknowledges the role of religion, politics, finances, illness, evidence and lifestyle. But I'm not about to launch into that right now. However, I would like to share some very brief and interesting insights into the foundational concepts that shape some religious contraceptive choices...straight from the BBC (see website for more religions). Whether you are religious or not, I think it is worthwhile to consider your own perceptions of conception and how that influences what options feel appropriate for you.

BUDDHISM

Buddhists believe that it is wrong to kill for any reason and fertilization is believed to be the moment when consciousness arises and life officially begins. Therefore, contraception that interferes with ovulation/fertilization is considered appropriate, whereas contraception that interferes with the development of a fertilized egg is not.
Contraceptive No-No's: IUD

JUDAISM

Jews believe that it is forbidden to "waste" seed. Therefore, contraception that does not interfere with the journey of semen to the uterus is appropriate. Barrier methods are not.
Contraceptive No-No's: condom, diaphragm, spermicide, etc.

ISLAM

The conversation around contraception in Islamic cultures is quite politically charged. The Qur'an does not explicitly condone or forbid any specific birth control. However, the Islamic culture has strong family values and believes children are gifts from god, so it is not acceptable to use contraceptive methods for early abortion or engage in contraception that permanently prevents the ability to conceive.
Contraceptive No-No's: tubal ligation, vasectomy