It's about more then Birth Control

Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cancer among women, and it causes more deaths than any other type of female reproductive cancer. Ovarian cancer is rarely diagnosed in its early stages. It is usually quite advanced by the time diagnosis is made, but by simply taking an oral contraceptive a woman can greatly reduce the risk of contracting ovarian cancer.

Oral Contraceptives are also used to treat acne, heavy periods which can lead to anemia, irregular periods and reduce the symptoms of PMS.  While these issues may seem trivial to the male population they are not trivial to the women who endure these physical problems.

More serious medical conditions that are treated with oral contraceptives are Polycystic Ovary Syndrome which is a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. Treatment with oral contraceptives reduces the risk of long-term complications, such as Type 2 Diabetes and Heart Disease. Since the oral contraceptives prevent cyst from forming a woman also doesn’t have to worry about facing emergency surgery if a cyst ruptures.  Endometriosis is a female health disorder that occurs when cells from the lining of the womb (uterus) grow in other areas of the body. This can lead to pain, irregular bleeding, and problems getting pregnant again one of the treatments is oral contraceptives.

Studies have consistently shown that using oral contraceptives reduces the risk of ovarian cancer; studies have also shown oral contraceptive use significantly reduces the risk of endometrial cancer (National Cancer Institute). So it is unconscionable that any employer would insist that a woman’s medical insurance deny coverage of this medication.  Thanks to the Affordable Healthcare Act many more women will now be able to use a medication that will allow them to live happier, pain free and more productive lives.