Ever since I was introduced to the world of sex and reproduction, I have heard and seen countless debates between "pro-life" and "pro-choice" supporters. Over the last year or so it has become more of a highlighted issue, much to 2016's rollercoaster Presidential Election. Here are my own personal thoughts, as well research I have dug up, on the pro-choice movement and its opposers, and why I believe it is the best option for every woman out there.

For starters, pro-choice is not synonymous with "pro-abortion"--rather, the pro-choice movement defends and upholds the rights of women to choose what is best for them in their reproduction, as well as working towards the prevention of unwanted pregnancies by promoting contraception, reducing the need for abortions, educating women, and ensuring that families have the means necessary to raise happy and healthy children.

Although the pro-choice movement does not directly mean pro-abortion, it has been labeled as such for many years. Essentially, identifying as pro-choice means that whatever a woman decides to do with her body is no one's "choice" or "decision" but her own. Whether she uses birth control or not, plans to have an abortion or not, engages in sexual intercourse or not, it is solely her body and her decision(s) to make. In a nutshell, it is the belief in a woman's right to choose.

Ultimately, sex is not just for those who want to reproduce. There is a reason it feels good, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with engaging in sex for pleasure. Those who are anti-choice however, oppose even the slightest mention of contraception and sex education, as well as supporting the act of forced motherhood when a woman unintentionally becomes pregnant. This here, is where the problems lie. Forced motherhood is cruel, as raising a child should never, ever be a punishment for engaging in sex.

I as a young woman who has been on contraception for a few years now, am highly appreciative of places like Planned Parenthood, who not only provide services for those who are low income, but services to young women like myself who want to be proactive in their reproductive health.

I know plenty of people who would never opt for an abortion, but still uphold the belief that a woman can choose what is best for her. Being pro-choice does not have to mean that abortion is an option for you, only that it is an option for others.

I am pro-choice, because I support the lives and reproductive health of women all around the world. I encourage you to support them, too.