To the Contrary Season 21 Episode 21 August 31, 2012

To the Contrary Season 21 Episode 21, which aired on August 31, 2012, featured a variety of political and social discussions pertaining to women's issues. The episode began with a debate over recent attempts to restrict access to abortion, including laws requiring ultrasounds and waiting periods. Host Bonnie Erbé led the discussion, which included various opinions from the show's female panelists. The segment explored the various impacts of these laws on women's access to healthcare, and particularly on low-income and minority women who may struggle to access abortion services.

The second segment of the episode focused on the state of women and politics in the United States. The discussion centered around the question of why women are still underrepresented in political office in this country. Panelists discussed various factors that may contribute to this disparity, including sexism in the political arena, a lack of support and mentorship for female candidates, and gender bias among voters. The segment also highlighted the work of organizations that are working to support and encourage women to run for office, including She Should Run and Emerge America.

The third segment of the episode focused on the ethics of egg donation. The discussion highlighted the growing popularity of egg donation as a way for women to earn money, and explored some of the ethical questions that arise when selling one's eggs. Host Bonnie Erbé led the discussion, which included input from experts in the field of reproductive medicine, as well as women who had donated their eggs. The segment touched on issues such as informed consent, the commodification of women's bodies, and the potential health risks associated with egg donation.

The fourth segment of the episode focused on the rise of single motherhood in the United States. The discussion explored the various reasons why more and more women are choosing to have children on their own, including changing social attitudes toward single motherhood and advances in reproductive technology. The segment also touched on the impact of single parenthood on children, and on society as a whole. Panelists discussed the challenges that single mothers face, including financial struggles and a lack of support from society and the government.

The episode wrapped up with a debate over the controversial issue of contraception. The discussion explored the role of contraception in women's lives, and the impact of recent attempts to restrict access to birth control. Panelists discussed the various reasons why women may choose to use contraception, including for family planning and for medical reasons such as hormonal imbalances. The segment also touched on the ongoing political debate over access to birth control, and the various ways in which women's reproductive health is still a contentious issue in American politics.

Overall, To the Contrary Season 21 Episode 21 offered a thoughtful and nuanced exploration of a variety of women's issues, ranging from reproductive rights to single motherhood to the state of women in politics. The show's diverse panel of female experts and advocates shed light on the complex challenges that women face in American society, and offered valuable insights into potential solutions and avenues for change. Despite the fact that the episode aired almost a decade ago, many of the issues that were discussed remain highly relevant today, underscoring the ongoing importance of creating a forum for women's voices to be heard and their experiences to be understood.