ICYMI: Hinson Highlights Legislation to Help Women Access Long-Lasting Birth Control
Congresswoman Ashley Hinson
The Telegraph Herald
Adult women should be able to access safe birth control methods that work best for them, regardless of their ZIP code.
For some women, the best option is oral contraceptives they can pick up at their local pharmacy. For others, it may be a long-lasting option like an IUD or arm implant. Women should be able to talk with their healthcare provider, decide what works best for them, and access that care as close to home as possible. That’s just common sense.
That’s why I introduced new legislation to help women access long-lasting birth control options at their local community health centers.
Right now, a woman may talk through her options with her local provider and decide an IUD or arm implant is right for her, only to learn the health center doesn’t have a trained provider or the option isn’t available onsite. That can mean scheduling additional appointments, another long drive, or taking more time off work. It shouldn’t be that complicated.
My bill would help community health centers in underserved areas train providers and keep long-lasting birth control options on hand so women can safely access contraception without unnecessary barriers. It also improves telehealth options to help women who live far from a provider can discuss their options and connect with a physician who can provide the care that works best for them.
Community health centers are often the front door to healthcare in rural Iowa. We should give trusted local providers the tools they need to meet women where they are, not force women to navigate around gaps in the healthcare system.
This new bill builds on work I’ve been doing since my time in the Iowa Legislature. I’ve long believed adult women should be able to access safe, FDA-approved contraception over the counter, and I’ve led that effort in Congress.
As a mom raising two teenage boys, I’m on the other side of those early years of starting a family. But I continue to hear from Iowa women about the barriers they face accessing the care that works for them. I’ll keep working with anyone who is willing to break down those barriers and support Iowa women.
This piece was originally published in The Telegraph Herald on October 5, 2026.
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