Some observations on the use of oral contraception

Abstract

Women who choose to use oral contraceptives generally make that decision without sufficient factual information concerning alternative methods of birth control. Information about the side effects of oral contraceptives is provided, but women are not in a position to adequately evaluate these risks, unless they have also received complete and impartial information on alternative methods. A number of biases on the part of physicians and other family planning personnel preclude an impartial delivery of this information. Family planners tend to favor oral contraceptives and IUDs over condoms and foam, a bias enhanced by the fact that the former methods have been studied extensively and are supported with use-effectiveness rates. The latter methods have not been as thoroughly studied and information, such as use-effective rates for foams and condoms in combination, is not available. The current attitude, that adolescents, minority women, and young mothers with several children are in need of the most highly effective birth control method does little to encourage an unprejudiced presentation of other methods. Prescribing the pill is also more convenient and saves the time of the clinician. The author calls upon clinicians to become aware of their biases and women to assert their right to make an "informed choice."