What is contraception good for? The answer may seem obvious: As far back as the age of Cleopatra, who used gold pellets to prevent pregnancy, women have sought ways to plan the number and timing of their children. But critics of that idea go back just as far, and contraception remains controversial to this day.
As the world celebrates World Contraception Day on Sept. 26, it’s worth reviewing some of the ways that access to modern contraception improves not only the lives of girls and women, but also men, boys and society in general.
Here are the top five benefits, in reverse order of importance:
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About the authors
Katja Iversen
Katja Iversen is an executive adviser, author, and advocate for global health, gender equality, sustainability, and purpose driven leadership. She is an adviser to the WEF, the U.N., and to world and corporate leaders. She is also an internationally recognized expert on development, advocacy, and communications. Previously, she held the position as president and CEO at Women Deliver; trained Fortune 500 executive in cross cultural management; was chief of strategic communication and public advocacy with UNICEF; and worked in advocacy and communication with UNFPA, FAO, and various NGOs.
Jill Sheffield
Jill Sheffield is the founder and President of Women Deliver, an international advocacy organization that convenes global leaders to galvanize action to improve the health and well-being of girls and women. Sheffield is a global educator and advocate who has worked to promote women’s health and rights around the world for more than three decades.
