Endocrine Society expresses concerns that federal rule will reduce women's access to birth control

The Endocrine Society expressed concerns Friday with the presidential administration's new rules that would scale back the Affordable Care Act's contraception coverage mandate.

The Society, the world's largest professional organization for physicians who treat and scientists who study hormone health conditions, called for future health reform efforts to include continued access to no-cost hormonal contraception in a position statement issued last month.

The rules, which took effect Friday, allow companies to stop covering contraceptive services for their workers if they have religious or moral objections. The move will reduce some women's ability to access birth control at no cost.

No-cost hormonal contraceptive services allow a woman to effectively plan if and when she becomes pregnant. This has a positive impact on families' socioeconomic status and health. The resulting reduction in unplanned pregnancies also has a positive impact on healthcare costs.

Hormonal contraception's health benefits extend beyond family planning. Endocrinologists frequently prescribe hormonal contraception to treat a variety of conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Many birth control pill users use this contraceptive method to treat excessive menstrual bleeding, menstrual pain and acne. Hormonal contraception also can reduce a woman's risk of developing ovarian and endometrial cancer.

By allowing employers to revert to pre-ACA cost-sharing requirements, the rules will increase the number of women who are unable to afford contraception.

Comments

The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of News Medical.
Post a new comment
Post

While we only use edited and approved content for Azthena answers, it may on occasions provide incorrect responses. Please confirm any data provided with the related suppliers or authors. We do not provide medical advice, if you search for medical information you must always consult a medical professional before acting on any information provided.

Your questions, but not your email details will be shared with OpenAI and retained for 30 days in accordance with their privacy principles.

Please do not ask questions that use sensitive or confidential information.

Read the full Terms & Conditions.

You might also like...
New study finds skincare products could expose children to harmful phthalates