If you’re a woman living in the U.S., you might wonder who really gets to choose your birth control method and how you cover the costs. Ideally, the answer would simply be “You, dear! It’s your body!” But let’s face it, we don’t live in an ideal world. Amy Smith captures this reality with a humorous twist in her new sketch for her show, Ask Amy Smith.
In one memorable line, she quips, “Consult your doctor to see if birth control is right for you. Then, ask your boss if it’s okay too. And while you’re at it, get your boss to consult his priest! Don’t forget to ask a Boy Scout for his opinion.” It’s amusing because it hits home. Women in America have faced a barrage of intrusion into what should be private decisions made between them and their healthcare providers. The Hobby Lobby ruling from last year was a prime example, allowing “closely-held” for-profit companies to opt out of providing comprehensive contraceptive coverage based on religious beliefs. In other words, your employer can decide whether your birth control is acceptable or not. Makes perfect sense, right? Not in 2023.
Additionally, the sketch’s closing scene, where a pharmacist casually tosses a gun to a minor, might seem shocking — but it’s not entirely out of touch with reality. A current bill in Alabama is pushing to allow kids under 18 to possess handguns for hunting and recreational activities. So, we can confidently say a child can handle a firearm, yet we still question a woman’s ability to make informed decisions about her contraception. Incredible, isn’t it?
We laugh to mask the underlying frustration.
For more insights into your options, check out our piece on home insemination kits. If you’re on a fertility journey, you might also want to visit Make a Mom for expert advice. And for those curious about the broader landscape of reproductive technology, Wikipedia’s page on in vitro fertilization is a fantastic resource.
In summary, Amy Smith’s latest sketch cleverly highlights the absurdity surrounding women’s reproductive rights, blending humor with a powerful critique of the current state of affairs. It’s both a laugh and a wake-up call, reminding us that while we may chuckle, there’s a serious issue at play.