Unwanted pregnancy

Re “It all depends on the ledge”: I recall in the ’60s the bra-burning liberation cry — women didn’t want to be seen only as sex objects. Well, sounds good. But once sexual anarchy became the rule, women now seem to enjoy being seen as a sex object, whether they admit it or not, and we are saddled with the results. And, contrary to the opinion of the author, I believe it is the presence of the pill that unleashed the tide of so-called “free sex.” Once one thought s/he could act with impunity, that person could give in to whatever in that area.

If the object is to prevent unwanted pregnancies, the old-fashioned way works best. But I’m not sure teaching abstinence is even legal, since it’s perceived as a religious teaching. (Has anyone even considered that religious teaching might have been given for the good of the community?)

“The pill has the potential to be 99% effective at preventing pregnancy if you take it without fail — meaning you don’t forget to take the pill for even a day or two. However, taking the pill perfectly can be difficult, which is why nine out of 100 women who use the pill will have an unintended pregnancy every year.” (Cleveland Clinic) Nearly 10% of the ones who take it. Also, some medications reduce the effectiveness of the pill.

The question arose Wednesday as to when a fetus becomes a human being. I’m pretty sure no human pregnancies have produced any other kind of being. One might only deny its humanity if one found it expedient not to recognize it. I think the phrase is “in denial.” Maybe it’s only pragmatic. Short-term good.

Many women who have aborted know exactly what they have done, and rue it for the rest of their lives. Some remain in denial, suffering depression from unknown cause. Not all, of course. Denial works for a time.

Whether the government should stay out of the fray — maybe non-involvement would include not supporting the industry?

DAPHNE BEREND

Subiaco