Reproductive Issues

Issues around women's reproductive experiences, rights, and health have been some of the most emotionally charged issues in our culture and our churches. From birth control to abortion, family planning to infertility and reproductive loss, sex education and STD screening to adequate prenatal and gynecological care, feelings and beliefs about women and reproduction are often strong and conflicting.

At one time in this country, Connecticut banned the use of prescription birth control (the law was overturned in 1965). Currently, there are at least two generations who have no memory of abortion as illegal. In 35 years, there has been tremendous progress. However, the fight for women’s reproductive health care has been hard fought. And, on many fronts, the fight continues. For example:

  • Over the past three years, Congress has voted more than 120 times to roll back reproductive health care. And the vast majority of states severely restrict access to abortion for some of the most vulnerable women among us – teenagers and the poor.
  • In a recent survey by Lake Snell Perry, voters indicated that they believe the right to abortion is currently being challenged. Notably, more than 4 out of 10 believe it is likely that a woman’s right to an abortion will be overturned in their lifetime.
  • The 1996 Federal Welfare Law included a $250 million allocation of federal funds for states to teach that "abstinence from sexual activity outside of marriage is the expected standard for all school age children." Funded programs are prohibited from discussing birth control, although indirect referrals may be made to students requesting information.
  • Many women and couples face prohibitive expense if they choose to pursue fertility treatment, making having a child out of reach for those women who cannot financially afford this type of health care. In most cases, fertility treatment is not covered by health insurance.

Questions for thought and discussion:
  1. How important are these issues for women and men of faith? What are your views on these issues and/or the views of your congregation?
  2. In his January 8, 2000, radio address, President Clinton said that access to reproductive health care information and services is a fundamental right and essential to building strong and healthy families. He stated that family planning services, both here and overseas, help women gain control over their lives, increasing their ability to attend school, earn a better living, stay healthy and provide for their families. Do you agree with his opinion? Why or why not?
  3. Planned Parenthood considers the "abstinence-until-marriage programs" as an unrealistic attempt to reduce teen pregnancy since there is no evidence that a "just say no" approach, in the absence of good sex education, is effective in delaying the onset of intercourse. How might we as a community of faith address the important issue of teen pregnancy prevention? What message should we be giving to our sons and daughters? How can we contribute positively to community efforts to prevent teen pregnancy?
  4. The Planned Parenthood mission is "Every woman safe and healthy. Every child wanted and loved." Surveys indicate that a solid majority of Americans support the ideal of ensuring that every child is a wanted child. What can the church do to help our society reach these goals? Are they realistic? Do you think they can be achieved in the next generation?
Reflections:

Share your reflections on and/or experiences with reproductive issues here.


Official Church Documents

1984 Statement on Abortion for the Church of the Brethren
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