5 Reasons Why Sharing Birth Control Stories Matters

Talking about birth control matters. Sharing real experiences can create ripples of change in policy, public perception, and personal lives. And because no two stories are identical, offering up a unique journey helps to normalize the range of experiences people have with birth control. Here are five compelling reasons why storytelling matters: 

Empower Others

When people share their stories, they help others feel less alone. On average, women in the US use five different birth control methods throughout the course of their lives. By sharing their own journeys, people can break stigmas and help empower others to do the same, creating a sense of community and support that can be incredibly uplifting.

Influence Policy Change

Personal narratives can spark change in policy. Policymakers often need to hear real-life stories to understand the impact of their decisions. When people share their stories, it helps to humanize the urgent need for better access to affordable birth control, inspiring action and advocacy for laws that expand birth control access.

Shift Public Opinion

Conversations around birth control can be filled with stigma and misunderstanding. By sharing real stories, people can contribute to a more informed and compassionate dialogue. This helps to normalize conversations about contraception and highlights its importance in people’s lives, making it easier for others to speak up and share their own experiences.

Emphasize Accessibility Challenges

Many people face barriers to accessing birth control, from cost barriers to pharmacy or insurance hurdles. By discussing these difficulties — like taking time off work for appointments or struggles with prescriptions — people can bring attention to these crucial issues. Sharing a story like this can drive home the point that equitable access to contraception is not just a personal concern, but a societal necessity.

Celebrate Choice and Autonomy

Contraception is about empowerment and personal choice. Sharing stories can illustrate how having access to a preferred method of birth control positively impacts someone’s life. Whether it’s helping manage menstrual cycles, enjoying worry-free travel, or supporting people as they advance in their careers, real experiences with birth control reflect the power of choice! That’s something worth celebrating while also using the opportunity to advocate for a future where everyone can determine their own destinies.

Together, we can remove the stigma and highlight the importance of access to birth control for all. Share your story in our Birth Control story bank and join us Thursday, November 14 on social media for #ThxBirthControl Day!