The basic human right of self-determination is meaningless for women who do not have the ability to control reproduction. Devoting an issue of this journal to contraception makes sense at this time when the unintended pregnancy rate in the United States continues to hover at 50%. Every woman knows whether it is the right time for her to bear a child and for her and her family to commit the considerable personal and financial resources necessary for raising that child. But the impact of contraception transcends the importance of individual choice. It has dramatic implications for the health, well-being, and survival of communities
