Yeah, I agree that we should be looking for other solutions, but the pill works well and reliably for a lot of people. I think that what you were suggesting, and I would agree with you, is that we ought to be more focused on the potable water issue in general and removing various human contaminants, including hormones from the equation at the water processing plants.

[–] captainlezbian@lemmy.world 3 points 10 months ago (1 children)

Really my concern with it is the fact that hormone treatments have massive biological effects. Sometimes that’s great, some people take them specifically because of that. Other times it’s unpleasant side effects and they may be better served with a different contraceptive choice.

I think when it comes to water contaminants we should be looking at civil engineering solutions because even without these drugs used in humans it’d be a concern given hormone use in cattle and natural hormone release in urine concentrated for the millions of people in some cities. We need to be further investing in sewage research. It’s not a sexy form of infrastructure like dams, rail systems, or power plants, but it is one of the most significant health advancements our species has ever made and there’s a lot of advancement left to make.

[–] Spendrill@lemm.ee 1 points 10 months ago

Yes, I agree with you about all of that.