Reaction To Readings From the syllabus: Students will write brief ✓ Solved

Students will write brief responses to ten articles. For each article describe 1-2 points made by the author that made a serious impression on your thinking about the topic. Instructions: Make the title of the article, including the source, the header above your brief response. Do not include quoted material or copy from the article. Briefly describe 1-2 key points that affected your thinking. Share your concerns about the issue. A paragraph is good for each.

Paper For Above Instructions

1. “Insurance No Longer Has to Pay for Contraception” New York Times, December 2, 2017

This article discusses a proposed plan that would eliminate the requirement for insurance policies to cover contraception. The argument by some Congress members is the idea that such coverage is unnecessary and that individuals should bear the cost of birth control. One point that struck me was the notion that reproductive health responsibilities could be shifted away from insurance companies, potentially making contraception less accessible to those who cannot afford it. This shift raises significant concerns about women's health rights and the widening gap in healthcare accessibility.

2. “A Postpartum Penalty: Depression Diagnosis May Affect Rates for Life Insurance” By Ron Lieber, 2/27/16, New York Times

This article highlights how a postpartum depression diagnosis can lead to higher rates of life insurance, reflecting a broader issue concerning mental health and societal perceptions of women's health post-childbirth. The key point that impacted me was the stigmatization of mental health issues and the financial implications stemming from them. My concern is that this can discourage women from seeking help during a critical time, which could have widespread consequences for both maternal and child health.

3. “Some I.V.F. Experts Discourage Multiple Births” Jane Brody, 10/11/16, New York Times

The article explores the push against multiple births arising from in vitro fertilization (IVF) due to the associated health risks. One significant point made is the recognition of the medical complications that can occur for both mothers and infants with multiple births. This perspective has made me rethink the ethical implications of maximizing reproductive assistance without sufficiently addressing the health consequences. It raises the question of how we prioritize successful outcomes in reproductive technologies over the health of both mother and child.

4. “Should Young Women Sell Their Eggs?” Donna De La Cruz, OCT. 20, 2016, New York Times

This article raises the ethical dilemma surrounding the egg donation industry, particularly the implications of young women commodifying their reproductive potential. A key takeaway is the discussion on the socioeconomic factors that drive women to consider egg donation as a financial option. My main concern is the exploitation inherent in this market, as it may prey on vulnerable populations seeking financial relief, presenting a complex intersection of ethics and economics in reproductive health.

5. “The Return of the D.I.Y. Abortion” Seth Stevens Davidowitz, 3-6-16, New York Times

This article outlines the resurgence of self-managed abortions, often out of necessity, due to increasing restrictions on access to professional abortion services. A point that struck me was the desperate measures women may resort to when legal access is impeded. It raises alarms about safety and the increasingly fraught landscape of reproductive rights. The growing trend of DIY abortions reflects a deeper crisis in women's autonomy over their bodies and healthcare access, highlighting the dire need for supportive and safe reproductive health environments.

6. “American Home Birth is Dangerous” Amy Tuteur, 5-1-16, New York Times

The article makes a compelling argument on the risks associated with home births, particularly when not attended by medical professionals. One key point emphasizes the potential life-threatening scenarios for mothers and infants in a home delivery context. My concern here is the need for balanced public perception; while empowering women through home births can be appealing, the risks necessitate informed decision-making. This highlights the importance of education regarding birth choices and ensuring that safety is not compromised for the sake of personal preference.

7. “One Nation Divisible/Rural America’s Childbirth Crisis: The Fight To Save Whitney Brown” By Betsy McKay and Paul Overberg, Wall Street Journal

This article explores the systemic issues surrounding childbirth in rural America, emphasizing disparities in healthcare access. A significant point is that many rural women must travel long distances for prenatal and delivery care, which can hinder maternal and infant health outcomes. I am concerned about the societal implications of such disparities; if access to basic healthcare services is limited based on geography, it exacerbates existing inequalities. It stresses the urgent need for policymakers to address these geographic health disparities to ensure equitable care for all women.

8. “Why A Generation of Adoptees is Returning to South Korea” Maggie Jones, New York Times Magazine

This article examines the motivations of adoptees returning to their countries of birth, often seeking identity and closure. One impactful point is the emotional journey adoptees face, reconciling their experiences in a foreign culture with their origins. My concern revolves around the broader implications of adoption practices and the necessity for systemic changes that provide support for adoptees navigating these complex feelings. It highlights the importance of addressing emotional health alongside policy reform in adoption practices.

9. “The Dwindling Options for Surrogacy Abroad” Danielle Preiss and Pragati Shahi, The Atlantic, May 21, 2016

This article discusses the shrinking landscape of international surrogacy due to evolving regulations. A pivotal point raised is how these restrictions can limit options for families seeking surrogacy, often pushing them to unethical alternatives. My concern is the ethical ramifications of these limitations, as they may not prioritize the well-being of surrogate mothers. This poses serious questions regarding the governance of reproductive technologies and the need for protective measures that ensure ethical practices in surrogacy globally.

10. “Powerful Women Who Have Spoken About Their Own Abortion” Elle

This article showcases the courage of women who publicly share their abortion experiences, altering the narrative surrounding reproductive rights. The emphasis on personal stories has made me realize the power of visibility in destigmatizing abortion. My concern is about the ongoing societal backlash against women who choose abortion; the dialogue must evolve to ensure women’s rights and freedoms are protected without fear of judgment. The need for supportive conversations about abortion is more crucial now than ever to combat stigma.

References

  • Lieber, R. (2016). A Postpartum Penalty: Depression Diagnosis May Affect Rates for Life Insurance. New York Times.

  • Tuteur, A. (2016). American Home Birth is Dangerous. New York Times.

  • Brody, J. (2016). Some I.V.F. Experts Discourage Multiple Births. New York Times.

  • De La Cruz, D. (2016). Should Young Women Sell Their Eggs? New York Times.

  • Davidowitz, S.S. (2016). The Return of the D.I.Y. Abortion. New York Times.

  • McKay, B., & Overberg, P. (2016). One Nation Divisible/Rural America’s Childbirth Crisis: The Fight To Save Whitney Brown. Wall Street Journal.

  • Jones, M. (2016). Why A Generation of Adoptees is Returning to South Korea. New York Times Magazine.

  • Preiss, D. & Shahi, P. (2016). The Dwindling Options for Surrogacy Abroad. The Atlantic.

  • Elle. (2016). Powerful Women Who Have Spoken About Their Own Abortion.

  • Jones, K. (2015). Why Does Open Adoption Rarely Work? The New Republic.