Ovulation method

Press, 21 August 1978, Page 12

Ovulation method

'Dr M. G. Metcalf has written to the editor of “The Press” to make the following comments on the article, "Ovulation method not to be confused with other contraception,” which appeared on this page last Saturday. “I am somewhat disturbed that in an article by Averil Bathurst in this morning’s Press it may appear that I am a supporter of the Natural Family Planning Association. I am not. While grateful for the information provided by the N.F.P.A. which, helps women recognise the times when they are fertile, I can only regret their refusal to provide any contraceptive advice other than an exhortation to refrain from sex. Mrs Bathurst interviewed me about a study I have done which suggests that some older women have ‘fertile’ mucus at times when they are not

fertile. There is evidence that these episodes of pseudo-fertility can last many weeks, and that they occur without warning. Adherence to N.F.P.A. teachings could mean prolonged sexual abstinence for such women and a high level of anxiety. I cannot regard this as satisfactory.” In the same article, a statement, by Dr Metcalf was; incorrectly attributed to Dr A. Holme’s, medical supervisor of the Christchurch ■ N.F.P.A. clinics. ;

Dr Metcalf 'had said that I she strongly opposed moves; to obtain public money for; teaching the method, and; that she saw the periods ofj abstinence imposed by the method as “not on for most; people.” The omission of a paragraph left readers with the inaccurate impression that I I this view had been ex-| ; pressed by Dr Holmes. In! i fact this view is contrary to ! that of Dr Holmes, and contrary to other statements by her in the article. i The error is regretted. '