Contraception has been a cornerstone of modern living. It has enabled humans to plan families and ensure they have only the number of children they can afford to raise. It has defined not only the family structure and size but also the society in the last century.

However, in a patriarchal society, men have gained disproportionate power and control over fertility without shared responsibility. For much of modern history, contraception has been considered a woman's burden. Ironically, even with the responsibility on their shoulders, women often had little control over fertility decisions, highlighting the deep contradictions in traditional gender roles.

This article focuses on how easily accessible non-hormonal contraception devoid of any side effects brings women control over their fertility and how these health choices bring about change in men’s attitudes towards contraception.

Historical Burden: Contraception as a Woman’s Sole Responsibility

Societal norms and a lack of equitable reproductive healthcare positioned women as the sole gatekeepers of fertility. Men rarely took responsibility for contraception, even with access to easy-to-use options like condoms, while women faced invasive procedures and hormonal side effects.

According to NFHS-5 data:

• 56.5% of women of reproductive age use modern contraceptive methods.
• Female sterilisation accounts for 37.9% of contraceptive use.
• IUD usage: 1.7%, Oral Contraceptive Pills: 5.1%
• Traditional methods: 5.7%
• Condom usage: 9.5%, Male sterilisation: 0.3%

This data reflects the disproportionate burden placed on women. However, with new, safer options, this is beginning to change.

An Overview of Contraceptive Methods for Women

Non-hormonal Contraception Initiates The Cultural Shift

The emergence of non-hormonal contraceptives like Saheli Plus represents a turning point in reproductive wellness.

• Affordable: Low cost and unique dosage schedule
• Accessible: Part of the National Family Welfare Programme since 1995
• Easy-to-use: No doctor or prescription needed
• Convenient: Once-a-week dosage
• Safe and Proven: Decades of scientific research and national use
• No Side Effects: No hormonal impact
• Reversible: Does not affect fertility when discontinued

Saheli Plus empowers women to make informed decisions about birth spacing, career planning, and reproductive freedom.

Gender Equality in Reproductive Choices - The First Step to Reversing Gender Roles

With accessible, non-hormonal options like Saheli Plus, women can engage in shared contraceptive decision-making. NFHS-5 data shows increased joint decision-making among couples, showing a cultural shift toward shared responsibility in family planning.

Final Thoughts

Contraception is no longer a silent struggle. Thanks to options like Saheli Plus, contraception is becoming a shared responsibility that supports both health and gender equality.

This evolution is about more than pills—it’s about empowerment, partnership, and changing society’s view of reproductive health and gender roles.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who should be responsible for contraception in a relationship?
Contraception should be a shared responsibility with open communication and mutual decision-making.

2. Should men take responsibility for birth control?
Yes, men should engage in contraceptive decisions to promote gender equality and shared accountability.

3. Why are men less likely to talk about reproductive health?
Social stigma, lack of education, and cultural taboos limit discussion. Open dialogue can change this.

4. What are the roles of men in reproductive health?
Supporting contraception, promoting healthy pregnancies, and open communication are key male roles in reproductive health.