For women of reproductive age, Eldridge (who worked with pioneering women's health activist Barbara Seaman, author of The No-Nonsense Guide to Menopause and The Doctor's Case Against the Pill) has written a definitive, clear, and comprehensive reference that covers the history, scientific advances, and practical uses of contraception. Readers will be encouraged to realize that contraception needn't be a one-size-fits-all situation, as they are provided with cutting-edge information about all available methods and their pros and cons for different stages of women's lives and levels of fertility. In a readable, almost conversational style, the book cogently covers hormonal and nonhormonal contraception, alternative distribution methods, the new menstrual suppression drugs, the politics of Plan B, the male pill, fertility awareness/natural birth control, HPV vaccines, and international issues in reproductive and contraceptive health. Reliably researched, and with a personal point-of-view, this may well be the one volume women will want to consult.
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Owner Reviews, Ratings, Comments and Criticism
Laura Eldridge writes a very comprehensive guide on every available contraceptive choice on the market today. Both women and men should definitely read this book to stay up-to-date on best options and the medical complications of each method.
Despite the advertising, birth control has changed very little in the last 30 years (though distribution methods have been updated with rings, patches, and implants). Ms. Eldridge's book looks into the history of how each method was developed and how they are in use today. She explains how effective each method is and how they can be used more effectively. (Ever wondered if you HAVE to take the pill at the same time every day?)
Some reviewers paint Ms. Eldridge as anti-pill because she dares to address some of the serious side-effects. Instead, I would classify her as a women's health advocate who is asking each consumer to choose a method that works best for them and to not ignore potentially life threatening side effects. Definitely a must-read if you are unhappy with your current method or looking to start using birth control.
