Growing up in a conservative Catholic environment, discussions about reproductive health were often shrouded in secrecy and limited to the teachings of the Church. However, my curiosity and a deep-seated desire to understand the intricacies of reproductive health led me on a transformative journey from a Catholic school to pharmacy school.
My early education was deeply rooted in Catholic principles, where discussions about reproductive health were often reserved for religious contexts. While my school instilled strong moral values, I couldn’t ignore the gaps in my understanding of crucial health matters. This realization became the catalyst for my quest to learn more.
As I progressed through high school, I started questioning the limited information provided about reproductive health. We were educated about sexual health but were told not to engage in sexual intercourse because it was only allowed for married men and women. At the age of 16, I didn’t even know what a condom looked like. We did not have access to both male and female condoms at the nurse office at school. This is what began my quest for understanding the science behind it, the various methods of contraception, and the broader spectrum of sexual health. This curiosity became the driving force that led me to explore beyond the confines of my traditional education.
As I delved into my pharmacy school curriculum, I encountered a diverse range of subjects, one of which was Contraception Pharmacology & Counseling. I remember feeling a little uncomfortable hearing abortion being talked about so openly. However, this subject opened my eyes to the complexities surrounding this area of healthcare and ignited a curiosity to understand it in depth.
As I delved deeper into the world of healthcare on clinical rotations, I discovered the pivotal role that pharmacists play in reproductive health. Pharmacists serve as valuable resources for individuals seeking information about contraceptives, family planning, and sexual health. Recognizing the importance of this role, I made the decision to pursue a career in pharmacy to bridge the gap between religious beliefs and evidence-based reproductive health knowledge.
Pharmacy school proved to be both challenging and enlightening. I faced coursework that demanded a comprehensive understanding of reproductive health, including pharmacological interventions. Additionally, I engaged in open discussions that challenged my preconceived notions and allowed me to grow both personally and professionally.
Through my journey, I discovered that faith and science can coexist harmoniously. Instead of viewing them as conflicting entities, I learned to integrate my Catholic beliefs with evidence-based knowledge. This newfound perspective empowered me to contribute positively to conversations about reproductive health, fostering understanding and compassion within diverse communities.
My journey from Catholic school to pharmacy school has been a profound exploration of not only pharmaceutical sciences but also the intricacies of reproductive health. Embracing the challenges, questioning preconceived notions, and actively participating in the discourse surrounding this vital aspect of healthcare have defined my transformative journey. As I continue to learn and advocate, I hope to inspire others to approach reproductive health with an open mind, fostering a compassionate and informed approach to healthcare.
About the Author
Rebecca Exantus, Pharm.D Candidate, is a 4th-year student pharmacist in the Class of 2024 at Shenandoah University Bernard J. Dunn School of Pharmacy. Rebecca completed an elective APPE rotation with Birth Control Pharmacist.
Birth Control Pharmacist 