In today’s society, women’s reproductive health is too often reduced to a political debate that takes place within the narrow confines of overly simplistic choices: to allow contraception or not. to allow abortion or not. to allow IVF or not. These stark divisions trivialize the complexity and nuance of women’s health and overlook the deeper truth that women, even from a young age, possess a deep understanding of their own bodies. This intrinsic knowledge should not be the subject of a political tug-of-war. Instead, the focus should shift to empowering women through education and supporting health professionals who seek to educate women more comprehensively and meaningfully about their reproductive health.

Unfortunately, what is often overlooked in these debates is that there is an alternative approach to women’s reproductive health—one that goes beyond the limited options typically presented. This approach is based on fertility awareness-based methods and the growing field of restorative reproductive medicine. These methods offer women the opportunity to understand and monitor their own fertility by tracking daily biomarkers such as observing cervical mucus, basal body temperature, and urinary hormone levels. With proper education, these methods can be as effective as traditional contraception, with success rates in preventing pregnancy ranging from 95% to 99%, depending on the user’s intent. Additionally, they do not have the side effects commonly associated with hormonal contraceptives, implants, and IUDs.

Fertility awareness-based practices not only prevent pregnancy, they also provide healthcare professionals with the training to treat conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), postpartum depression, recurrent miscarriages, menstrual migraines, and irregular cycles. By focusing on identifying and treating the root causes of menstrual irregularities, this field offers a path to improved health that extends well beyond a woman’s reproductive years. Early treatment of these underlying health issues can significantly alter a woman’s overall health trajectory, leading to better outcomes and a higher quality of life.

One of the strongest aspects of fertility awareness-based methods is their accessibility. These methods have been successfully taught to women of all educational and literacy levels around the world. The cost of educating them about these methods is comparatively low, especially when compared to the cost of medications, medical equipment, and managing potential side effects of contraceptives. By learning how to monitor their own fertility naturally, women are empowered to make informed decisions about their health—decisions that reflect true reproductive freedom.

Women’s reproductive health should not be reduced to a set of political decisions. It is a complex and deeply personal aspect of women’s lives that deserves more than a binary, politicized approach. By shifting our focus to education and promoting restorative reproductive medicine, we can give women the knowledge and tools they need to take control of their health in a way that respects their intrinsic understanding of their bodies. This is ultimately the path to true reproductive freedom – a path that goes beyond politics and honors the wisdom that women have always possessed.

Monica Minjeur, DO, is a Cedar Rapids physician who has been practicing restorative reproductive medicine for 12 years and founded Radiant Clinic in 2023 as a women’s health center that treats women with reproductive issues to help women achieve a natural menstrual cycle to improve their health and gain a better understanding of their fertility.

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