True Feminism Embraces Childbearing: An Obstetrical Perspective, by Hector O. Chapa, M.D.

By Hector O. Chapa, M.D., Live Action, Oct 15, 2025

Guest Column·By Hector O. Chapa, M.D.

Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in this guest post are solely those of the author.

A recent commentary written by a psychiatry resident-in-training and published on October 11, 2025, in MedPage Today, paints natalism (the belief that human reproduction is essential for the continuation and flourishing of society) as “incompatible” with public health.

This perspective overlooks a fundamental truth: without natalism, there would be no public at all. The very existence and continuation of society depend on birth rates that sustain or grow the population.

Key Takeaways:

• MedPage Today published a commentary from a self-described “feminist” who believes that being in favor of promoting human reproduction is a detriment to public health.

• This argument is deeply flawed and short-sighted, as it does not take into account the need for a sustained future population.

• Women are often told that abortion is the only way for them to achieve success, and motherhood is downplayed in favor of career.

• True women’s empowerment must acknowledge and embrace pregnancy and childbirth as uniquely female experiences, and true feminism must champion the full spectrum of women’s abilities. …