(StatePoint) Modern contraception has transformed women’s lives over the past century. Since the birth control pill was introduced nearly 60 years ago, global fertility rates have dropped from 5 children per woman in 1960 to 2.5 today, driven by medical innovation and the growing empowerment of women, according to research published in “Science.”

The non-profit Power to Decide reports that despite progress, more than 19 million women in the United States live in “contraceptive deserts,” where provider shortages, restrictive policies and cost barriers limit access. Transportation challenges, long wait times and clinic shortages can also prevent patients from receiving necessary care.

At a recent roundtable sponsored by the Rowan Foundation and hosted by the University of Houston Stu

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