In the year 2008, it is disheartening as both an American and a woman to see a Presidential candidate both react and respond to a question concerning the health and contraceptive rights of millions of women in such a schoolboy fashion. If you have not already been witness to Republican candidate John McCain’s awkward moment, don’t worry in the age of YouTube, this moment can be recounted over and over. Follow the link below to view the exchange which took place between John McCain and a reporter.
I conducted a little of my own research according to Guttmacher Institute:
· Nearly half (46%) of all 15-19-year-olds in the United States have had sex at least once
· A sexually active teen who does not use contraceptives has a 90% chance of becoming pregnant within a year.
According to Covermypills.com
· One of the major barriers to universal contraceptive access is the high out-of-pocket cost to individual women whose health plans do not cover contraception. Retail costs for supplies alone can run approximately $360 per year for oral contraceptives, $180 per year for the Depo-Provera®, $450 for the Norplant and $240 for an IUD. In addition, the bulk of the cost for some of the most effective methods must be paid up front.
· The bottom line is that not covering contraception in employee health plans would cost employers 15-17% more in direct and indirect costs than providing such coverage. Studies show that health insurers can also save money by preventing unintended pregnancy.
$10,000.... Average mother and infant cost for one pregnancy
$450........... Average cost for first trimester abortion
$300-$350... Average cost for one year supply of birth control pills
Looking at the statistics and data available online, it is rather unclear as to why Senator and presidential hopeful John McCain would be baffled by the issue of women’s health and contraceptive freedom. It seems to me that John McCain is stuck back in a different time in American culture and that he is not at all in touch with the realities, needs, and concerns of American women.
Ladies, please keep this in mind as you head to the polls on November 4th, we must elect a President who is able to answer the hard-line questions and is capable of championing the rights of all Americans…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6IlGXhCUHo
By: Tina L. Hawley
