Gender equality is the cornerstone of society and equality starts from women being able to make decisions concerning themselves, their families, and society the same way men can. Lack of equality begins at home as women become homemakers dependent on their spouse or child, and decisions are made for them by others.

One of the major reasons behind women remaining at home is untimely pregnancy and childbirth. A report titled "Predicament of Returning Mothers" released by Ashoka University reveals that 73% of Indian women leave their jobs after giving birth, and 50% of working women in the country leave their jobs to take care of their children at the age of 30. When women cannot choose when they can have children, they cannot uphold their reproductive rights and lose the opportunity to build a career, gain financial independence, and reach positions of power. Inequality is a consequence of that.

So it is evident that empowering women with the ability to exercise their reproductive rights, choose when to get pregnant, and plan their families is crucial for achieving gender equality in society. Contraception gives women that power and promotes gender equality.

This article talks about the necessity of safe, convenient, and easy-to-use contraception for upholding women’s rights and attaining gender equality. It lists how Saheli stands out from the rest of the contraceptives in empowering women with the freedom to make healthy choices and achieve gender equality.

Which is the Best Contraception Method for You?

Every contraception method has its pros and cons. Choosing a reproductive control method depends on how suitable it is for a couple. You can determine that by evaluating various aspects of the contraception methods such as cost-effectiveness, side effects, health benefits, etc. Most reproductive control methods have trade-offs in one of those areas and the most suitable one is usually about the trade-offs you can manage easily.

For instance, Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) are highly effective but they must be inserted only by a healthcare professional. A visit to a doctor can be costly, and IUDs may come with some inconveniences such as cramping and heavier periods; in rare cases, it can even cause infections. It also cannot prevent STDs, unlike barrier methods like condoms. It is suitable only for someone who wants reversible contraception with moderate side effects and can afford a high one-time cost.

Comparison Table of Contraception Methods

Are Contraceptive Methods Created Equal for Men and Women?

The simple answer is no. It is evident from this table that contraceptive methods aimed at men, such as condoms or vasectomy, are more user-friendly, pain-free, cost-effective, and have almost no side effects in most cases. On the other hand, most contraception methods designed for women are either more expensive, complicated to use, or carry significant side effects and pain.

However, contraception is seen as a woman’s responsibility in most places in India, and knowledge about contraceptives and the access to them are limited. According to the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), the male engagement in family planning programmes in many states was very low, mainly due to a lack of awareness. According to the survey, 9.4% of currently married women aged 15-49 have an unmet need of reproductive control. When these factors are combined with the difference in the impact of contraception on the lives of men and women, it prevents gender equality.

Saheli: The Perfect Contraceptive for Women

Saheli is the world’s only non-steroidal oral contraceptive pill that is completely free from all the side effects. DCGI has approved it, and Saheli Plus has been included in the National Family Welfare Programme of India since 1995.

Trusted by millions of women in India for planning family and child spacing, Saheli stands out as the perfect contraceptive for women due to these factors:

• No steroids, no side effects
• Contains Centchroman, a Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM)
• Localised action with anti-oestrogenic properties in the uterus while being a potent oestrogenic agent in a few other organs
• Does not disturb your hormonal balance
• Safe and highly affordable
• Provides effective contraception
• A convenient choice with a unique weekly-once dosage pattern
• Offers numerous reproductive health benefits
• Promotes menstrual health, breast health, lipid profile, and bone density
• Suitable for most women, including breastfeeding mothers
• Easily reversible when needed

Frequently Asked Questions

1. In what ways do contraceptives contribute to women's empowerment and gender equality?

Contraceptives empower women by giving them control over their reproductive choices, allowing them to plan if and when to have children. This control supports gender equality by enabling women to pursue education, careers, and personal goals, thus improving their socio-economic status and autonomy.

2. Why is contraception often seen as a woman's responsibility?

Contraception is often seen as a woman's responsibility due to societal norms and biological factors, but it is important to recognise that reproductive responsibility should be shared. Empowering both partners to engage in contraceptive choices promotes healthier relationships and better family planning outcomes.

3. What is the equality of birth control?

Equality in birth control means ensuring that everyone, regardless of gender, has access to contraceptive options, information, and the freedom to make informed choices. It also involves promoting shared responsibility between partners, reducing gender-based disparities, and ensuring reproductive rights are upheld for all.