Editorial: Cost of birth control nothing to kid about

Due to a new federal law provision, drug companies are no longer allowed to sell discounted contraception to health centers. This practice has kept the costs of contraceptives down for college students, but now costs are rising dramatically; in some cases, the monthly cost of birth control rose from $12 to $50.

This poses a huge dilemma for college students, who already face financial binds.

The federal government needs to make a greater effort to support students who want to be responsible and avoid unwanted pregnancies. Unfortunately, the high costs of contraception could deter women from choosing a more effective contraception: According to the New York Times, some college campuses are already noting a drop in contraception sales.

Some proponents of the bill feel that abstinence should be encouraged but 95 percent of Americans have premarital sex. Even the most idealistic of Americans must realize that abstinence, especially in the more hormonally charged population of college students, is impossible and college students are now in danger. Lower the cost of birth control and avoid unwanted pregnancies.