Expert: Danielle - 8/3/2011

Question
Hi. How would you respond to the argument that the government forcing insurance companies to cover the cost of birth control violates the religious freedom of those who believe birth control is immoral? And also, how would you respond to the argument that birth control should not be considered a health care expense because pregnancy is not an illness? I heard a political commentator on Fox news compare this to the government covering the cost of manicures and pedicures! I found that insulting, and don't understand why a woman of all peope would be against this. I can see this coming from a man, but not a woman! I just don't understand why everyone can't support this. If you are against abortion, shouldn't you be for birth control? How else are women suposed to prevent pregnancy? I just want some talking points to use in a debate should the topic come up. Thanks.

Answer
Hi Amelia :)

I would remind them of the First Amendment that established the separation of church and state. Religious beliefs need to be kept separate from government matters. The only arguments opposing the mandate involve controlling women, and quite frankly, letting them die. The new provisions will save lives and money. Not only does it cover birth control, but access to domestic violence screening and counseling, along with breastfeeding support, something that in itself can save many, many lives, as well as a whole lot of money.

You're right-that is downright insulting. Unplanned pregnancy, and especially if it's unwanted can wreak havoc. The cost, the time, the energy. Pregnancy may not be an illness, but the very thing itself involves the embryo and fetus sucking the resources it needs from the woman. And it can be life threatening and damaging to someone's health (physically and mentally).

Well they're not pro birth control either because their issue is with women having consensual and fulfilling sex. That freaks the out, it really does. Forcing parenthood on women who dare to have sex is their way of trying to make it so women stop having sex, or that they get consequences for it. All this has its roots in misogyny, but they'd never admit to that.

Do you need anything more? Just let me know!