In the controversial defense bill recently passed by the House, there were discrepancies in how reproductive health issues were treated. While allowances for soldiers needing access to abortion and reproductive services were eliminated, a provision requiring a study on testosterone levels among troops in Special Operations forces was retained. This unequal treatment raises concerns about the equal treatment of reproductive health issues for women and men.
Low testosterone, also known as “low T,” has been associated with various health problems in men, including lower sex drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and depression. The contrasting treatment of abortion access and the testosterone study didn’t come as a surprise to Allison Jaslow, the CEO of the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. She stated that this action turned a bipartisan bill into a partisan one, targeting the care for women and LGBTQ individuals, while new care for male servicemembers remained untouched.
Christian F. Nunes, president of the National Organization for Women, also pointed out the disparity in how men’s and women’s care is treated. She criticized the double standard in the legislation, referring to it as blatant misogyny and transphobia that hinder the military’s progress towards creating an inclusive culture.
The abortion provision, which passed with a mostly partisan vote, removes current Pentagon policy that authorizes travel allowances for service members to access abortion and reproductive health services if they are not available near their posting location. The amendment was one of several social issue votes requested by hard-line House Republicans during the bill’s consideration.
On the other hand, the provision requiring a study on testosterone levels in Special Ops members was added in committee. It calls for a five-year study to examine the impact of training and deployments on testosterone levels, assistance for soldiers with low hormone levels, the quality of testing, and the effects of low testosterone on readiness and long-term health. A one-year interim report will also explore the appropriateness of a pilot program for testosterone replacement therapy and alternative remedies.
The study provision was added to the bill by a House Democrat, who later voted against the final version due to the inclusion of controversial riders. The need for the study was justified because Special Ops troops face requirements that can lead to lower testosterone levels and resulting symptoms.
While concerns about low testosterone are valid, some right-wing pundits have sensationalized the topic. The issue has led to a market for questionable supplements, even though the FDA advises that supplements should be limited to men with specific causes of testosterone deficiency.
Overall, the discrepancies in the treatment of reproductive health issues and the inclusion of a testosterone study highlight the need for equal and comprehensive care for all service members. The bill’s modifications have sparked criticism from advocates for women’s rights and gender equality.