Student Activists Tackle Contraceptive Access at DePaul University

Tue Oct 21 2025 03:39:55 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Faced with institutional restrictions on birth control, a student-led group at DePaul University employs creative methods to provide contraceptives and promote sexual health education.

In response to DePaul University's prohibition on birth control distribution, students have organized a covert contraceptive delivery service known as 'the womb service.' While the university's policies reflect its Catholic values, student activists argue that access to reproductive health options is essential for all students. Similar initiatives have emerged at other Catholic institutions, highlighting a growing demand for comprehensive sexual health resources.

CHICAGO (AP) — Confronting strict policies at DePaul University, student Maya Roman has turned to a smooth handoff system: a quick text, a visit to a designated spot, and the delivery of a paper bag containing condoms and Plan B emergency contraception. This operation, known as 'the womb service,' is the sole sexual health resource available to students beneath the restrictive policies of the Catholic institution.

DePaul University does not allow the distribution of any birth control on campus, following Catholic doctrines that discourage premarital sexual activity. In light of this, the student group formerly associated with Planned Parenthood Generation Action has resorted to off-campus operations after its official status was revoked by the university. This situation reflects a broader trend where student-led initiatives are trying to fill the gaps in reproductive healthcare services at Catholic universities, often despite resistance from administrative bodies.

Pushback Against Restrictive Policies

DePaul's administration states that it reserves the right to limit medical supplies, which promotes its mission and values. As Roman experience, the decision led to feelings of disbelief and disappointment among students seeking essential health resources.

This trend of limiting contraceptive access extends beyond university campuses, with many Republican-led states pushing for similar measures. Actions have included eliminating access to emergency contraception within Medicaid programs and imposing parental consent laws for minors, which substantially limit reproductive healthcare choices.

However, in contrast, Illinois recently mandated that public universities provide contraceptive services on campus. Activist groups express concern that these barriers impede students' autonomy and ability to plan their futures effectively.

Proactive Responses from Student Groups

The new version of the group led by Roman, now titled Students United for Reproductive Justice, receives multiple requests for contraceptives weekly and hosts educational seminars around sexual health. Other Catholic institutions, like Loyola University, have similarly incubated student-led organizations providing reproductive health supplies directly to classmates while advocating on issues of inclusion and healthcare access.

These collective efforts have a profound impact on students' lives, especially concerning their autonomy in managing reproductive health. The ongoing organizing includes grassroots initiatives, raising awareness, and striving for institutional change as students challenge and negotiate barriers within their educational environments.