contraception and menstruation

[falasportugues]

These days we have a choice of contraception, some of which can stop us menstruating, and some of which don't. I have preferred in the past to continue having periods, because I think it is important to be aware of my hormonal cycle. Do any ladies here have any other arguments for and against menstruating? It's renewal time, and I'd like some different perspectives to help me decide. I realise I could have put this on the family planning topic, but I would appreciate a feminist views on this issue. Thank you.

[Himalaya]

Fascinating article Pinklizzie , thanks. I didn't realise about the Catholic/'natural'/rhythm method connection. I thought the pill cycle was introduced because Market research showed it more likely to be acceptable if it didn't stop periods altogether. I wonder if that wasn't part of it too, since most people are not catholic and have no interest in the Pope's views on contraception. Otherwise they could had 'catholic' 21 day pills and 'regular' straight through ones from the start...?

[pinklizzie]

Yep all fascinating - at the time of the development of the pill the Catholic Church would have had much more influence, especially in America. How my grandmothers were just expected to get on with raising their many children by the church just blows my mind thinking about it.

To me, the development of the pill demonstrates another example of how men - can and still do determine the destiny of women to some extend - through how pharmaceuticals/pills are developed.

Mrst TM - that is the power of the internet isn't it. Previously women could not share experiences as easily and perhaps have been more isolated when sharing anecdotes.

[Himalaya]

Pinklizzie - more influence, but surely just over certain minority groups e.g Irish, Italian, Mexican Americans etc... Did WASPs - southern baptists, Lutherans, episcopalians etc ... really care what the Pope said on contraception? Why were they ok with barrier methods which hade already been ruled out by the Vatican? (not expecting you to know, just wondering...(