What theoretical considerations enter into the defintion of natural?

In nature, during pregnancy, progestin is producted to block the release of additional eggs.
The Pill is progestin in tablet form.

Therefore, the Pill is a natural method of birth control.

It depends on how you define "natural." What is your definition?

If you use this particular definition (found on an online dictionary [adj.]):

10 a : growing without human care; also : not cultivated <natural prairie unbroken by the plow> b : existing in or produced by nature : not artificial <natural turf> <natural curiosities> c : relating to or being natural food

It definitely is NOT natural.

Again, which definition are you using?

I hope this helps. Thanks for asking.

The definition of what is considered "natural" can vary depending on the context and individual perspectives. In the case of birth control, the notion of what is "natural" becomes complex, as it involves both theoretical and personal considerations.

Theoretical considerations that enter into the definition of what is considered natural can revolve around concepts such as origins, processes, and ingredients. Some people might argue that a method is natural if it occurs or is derived directly from nature, without any human intervention or synthetic substances. Others may have a broader definition of natural, allowing for some level of human refinement or intervention.

In the example you provided, the theoretical consideration involves understanding the role of progestin. Progestin is a synthetic hormone similar to the natural hormone progesterone, which is produced in the body during pregnancy. Progestin, whether taken in tablet form (such as in the Pill) or produced naturally during pregnancy, acts to block or suppress ovulation, which is the release of eggs from the ovaries.

Based on this understanding, some might argue that the Pill is a natural method of birth control because it mimics a process that occurs naturally in the body during pregnancy. However, others might disagree, arguing that the synthetic nature of progestin makes it unnatural.

It's important to note that the question of what is "natural" often comes down to personal beliefs, values, and cultural perspectives. Different individuals or groups may have different interpretations or definitions of what they consider natural.