Bishop Robert Barron, head of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee for Laity, Marriage, Family Life, and Youth, has firmly condemned the FDA’s approval of Opill, the first-ever over-the-counter oral contraceptive.
Barron, of Winona-Rochester, Minnesota, contends that this decision breaches the Hippocratic Oath, emphasizing the potential health threats it poses to women.
Barron argues that the absence of obligatory medical supervision for Opill could subject women to the detrimental effects of hormonal birth control. In line with Catholic doctrine, as detailed in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Barron views artificial contraception as morally unacceptable, intensifying his opposition.
Opill, a progestin-based drug manufactured by Perrigo, has been approved by the FDA for over-the-counter purchase. This move is projected to spur contraceptive use, especially among younger women and minors.
Previously, Bishop Barron, in conjunction with organizations like the National Catholic Bioethics Center, the Catholic Medical Association, and the National Association of Catholic Nurses, had protested against Opill’s over-the-counter availability.
They highlighted potential health dangers such as organ failure, heart disease and neurological problems.
Barron continues to portray fertility as a blessing to be cherished, not a condition to be suppressed, echoing the Catholic Church’s opposition to artificial contraception.
Pray for life!
🙏
