Thanks to all who have looked and read!
Please join me at my new blog at St Anne Center
God Bless you all!
AJC NFP doc
Friday, May 11, 2012
Friday, January 20, 2012
Religious employers will have to offer free birth control, Obama administration says
Religious employers will have to offer free birth control, Obama administration says
The culture of Death continues to spread. I am actually speechless about this.....for today!
But can coverage for IVF and Abortion be far behind?
At Mass today, the priest used the feast of St Sebastian to describe the difference between the fervor of Islam, and the apathy of Christianity (Catholicism). What he actually said was that the Church grew in the early days through martyrdom....and that this was an example of the unwavering belief in Christ.
Food for thought!
The culture of Death continues to spread. I am actually speechless about this.....for today!
But can coverage for IVF and Abortion be far behind?
At Mass today, the priest used the feast of St Sebastian to describe the difference between the fervor of Islam, and the apathy of Christianity (Catholicism). What he actually said was that the Church grew in the early days through martyrdom....and that this was an example of the unwavering belief in Christ.
Food for thought!
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Could this be real?
Happy new year! I have taken some time to reflect on the past year and the directions that might be taken. I saw this today and was amazed at the heart felt sentiments. I have been following Rick Santorum, and have been disappointed by the showing thus far......but could this be the beginning of something great?
Friday, October 21, 2011
Sorry to be away so long
Sorry to be away so long, but I had to think and pray after speaking with some people about the way in which the blog has come together. I decided to wait until I had something to write about.
One of the real great things about my current position is the time I can spend with the Medical Students. I am continually impressed with the way they interact with each other and the patients they follow.
One of the roles I play is to review their clinical experience. In this Catholic Hospital, there is a letter that went out last January reminding the OB/GYN crowd that they needed to abide by the Catholic Directives. Specifically, they were to refrain from dispensing and discussing contraception with their patients. While looking over the files, I could not help noticing how many encounters involving contraceptive choices they had witnessed.
It just shows the steepness of the climb that exists to build a culture of life. One day at a time.
Mary, seed of wisdom, pray for us
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Persona Humana - Declaration on Certain Questions Concerning Sexual Ethics
I don't know what has happened to my alma mater....though the class I took with Paul Lakeland in 1984 was on Liberation Theology. I am speechless.
I do believe that mother church has created a beautiful document that addresses this emotional issue
This program is from RealCatholicTV.com
Persona Humana - Declaration on Certain Questions Concerning Sexual Ethics
More Than A Monologue
I do believe that mother church has created a beautiful document that addresses this emotional issue
This program is from RealCatholicTV.com
Persona Humana - Declaration on Certain Questions Concerning Sexual Ethics
More Than A Monologue
Friday, August 26, 2011
Aborting one twin, sparing the other, when IVF goes 'wrong' :: EWTN News
I was interviewed yesterday be EWTN news. The writer did a great job integrating it into a recent article published in the new york times
NY TIMES: the 2 minus 1 pregnancy August 14, 2011
While I never had the experience of a couple seriously considering reducing a twin to a singleton, it is a situation that I am, nonetheless, not surprised by. It is a natural development as the idea of children as a commodity continues to permeate the culture.
Aborting one twin, sparing the other, when IVF goes 'wrong' :: EWTN News
St Maria Goretti,pray for us!!
NY TIMES: the 2 minus 1 pregnancy August 14, 2011
While I never had the experience of a couple seriously considering reducing a twin to a singleton, it is a situation that I am, nonetheless, not surprised by. It is a natural development as the idea of children as a commodity continues to permeate the culture.
Aborting one twin, sparing the other, when IVF goes 'wrong' :: EWTN News
St Maria Goretti,pray for us!!
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
I was contacted by a lawyer from Puerto Rico who is a volunteer for HLI.She is interested in me travelling to Costa Rica sometime in the next few months to share my experiences with legislators and doctors there to give them support. Costa Rica is one of the few countries where IVF is illegal.
The link is a recent perspective
IVF Turns Pregnancy Into a Shopping Expedition
The link is a recent perspective
IVF Turns Pregnancy Into a Shopping Expedition
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Changes to blog.
At the suggestion of several people, I have made some housekeeping changes. I considered moving the blog to another site....but that would take a number of different steps. I spent some time looking at the options here, and was pleasantly surprised.
Here are some changes.
To the left <----, there are multiple options to subscribe. One can join through google, or by email or RSS.
Each entry can now be posted to any one of several sites. The links are below.
Finally,the blog can also be accessed through www.chicagoinfertility.com
Thanks for all your thoughtful concerns!
God Bless you
St Gianna Pray for us!
Here are some changes.
To the left <----, there are multiple options to subscribe. One can join through google, or by email or RSS.
Each entry can now be posted to any one of several sites. The links are below.
Finally,the blog can also be accessed through www.chicagoinfertility.com
Thanks for all your thoughtful concerns!
God Bless you
St Gianna Pray for us!
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Homosexual Adoption: and more
As i continue researching the history of the pill....I am following the continual saga of the approval of Same sex marriage. I find, at least initially, interesting parallels. The pill was seen as an anathema less than 100 years ago. Indeed, it is only in the mid 1960's that there is any acceptance of hormonal contraception. The position taken be Cardinal Cushing on June 22, 1965 rings so loudly today
This program is from RealCatholicTV.com
"My position in this matter is that birth control in accordance with artificial means is immoral, and not permissible. But this is Catholic teaching. I am also convinced that I should not impose my position—moral beliefs or religious beliefs—upon those of other faiths."
Warming to the subject, the cardinal told his radio audience that day that "I could not in conscience approve the legislation" that had been proposed. However, he quickly added, "I will make no effort to impose my opinion upon others."
With that in mind, is it any wonder that Bishop Dolan only made his commentary after Governor Cuomo signed the legislation? At least Cardinal George made a little noise as "Catholic" Governor Quinn signed a Civil Union law recently.
And today, Michael Voris posts a Vortex talking about the homosexual adoption issue: It is posted below.
While the adoption issue is enormous, especially here in Illinois, it pales a little bit when compared to the increase I suspect in "married" same sex couples seeking advanced reproductive services for children. Using partially their own gametes, and, in some cases, a surrogate uterus, where will these children find a place. Adopted children had a mother and a father at some point. But who will speak for these children!
St Gianna, Pray for us!
This program is from RealCatholicTV.com
Friday, July 8, 2011
I am currently working on a comprehensive review of the risks and "benefits" of the oral contraceptive. In a recent Linacre quarterly article, an author postulated that there was no licit use of the pill. While I might ultimately agree, the basis must be found in the literature. As an expansion of my idea of the Three Pillars, I will be dedicating the next few posts on the contraceptive issue
One cannot begin a discussion without understanding the history. Through the magic of the internet, we can get some of the principles in their own voice.
While Gregory Pincus, Margaret Sanger and Katherine McCormick all died within a few years after the introduction of the pill, Dr John Rock, a Catholic OB/GYN, championed its early introduction. One of the primary investigators during the initial trials of the progesterone only pill and then Enovid, he worked until his dying breath to defend the pill. His theories have been refuted and possibly proven wrong. But here is an interesting example of his argument. He was interviewed by the CBC in 1964. The first interview which was very short, created a stir. In it, though, he makes the statement that is central to the question that I am researching......
Dr Rock 1
They had him back one week later for a longer discussion.
I post it here for your thoughts and prayers
St Gianna Pray for us!
Dr Rock, 1964
One cannot begin a discussion without understanding the history. Through the magic of the internet, we can get some of the principles in their own voice.
While Gregory Pincus, Margaret Sanger and Katherine McCormick all died within a few years after the introduction of the pill, Dr John Rock, a Catholic OB/GYN, championed its early introduction. One of the primary investigators during the initial trials of the progesterone only pill and then Enovid, he worked until his dying breath to defend the pill. His theories have been refuted and possibly proven wrong. But here is an interesting example of his argument. He was interviewed by the CBC in 1964. The first interview which was very short, created a stir. In it, though, he makes the statement that is central to the question that I am researching......
Dr Rock 1
They had him back one week later for a longer discussion.
I post it here for your thoughts and prayers
St Gianna Pray for us!
Dr Rock, 1964
USSCB looking for Family Life Exec Director
Anybody interested......I would be, but I have degrees in Medicine and Public Health, not Theology
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Lesbian blogger writes about life as a single mom
I just found this profile while doing research for a paper I am trying to write.
While I have never considered myself homophobic, I am struck by the way the writer describes the day to day activities of the woman.
Take a look for yourself.
St Maria Goretti, pray for us
Friday, July 1, 2011
Possible Breakthrough in Ovulation monitoring
Some very encouraging news in the WSJ today. A new ovulation system has been tested and is in use in Europe. Fascinating that they justify the cost (about $1000) with a 100% money back guarantee if no pregnancy in a year. I am trying to contact the team about studies being done in order to bring the technology to the United States. It deserves to be tested against the Marquette model and the Ov-Watch to see just how good it might be
telemedicine-fertility-monitor-as-successful-as-ivf/
ov watch
telemedicine-fertility-monitor-as-successful-as-ivf/
ov watch
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Building Blocks
Happy feast of Sts Peter and Paul!
This is over the hump day, and I have been looking at sites as I plan to expand the blog. But today I want to give a brief status report. I had a great meeting with a friend of mine this week, who has been trying to think of ways to bring me into his practice and merge our common interests in offering Catholic Based women's health care. I can promise nothing, but patience
Second, I am following the advice of the administrators I have met where I work now and a proposal is slowly circulating. I will be forwarding this proposal soon to the highest levels of the company and then following up for support. The recent amazing support I have received from several people is moving this ball forward.
You know, Michael Voris is in Dublin this week. Over the last two days, he has laid out in his inimitable style the severe erosion of the faith that is occurring in the land where so many can trace their lineage. I, for one, can attest that while the materialism and new age thinking are well rooted here in America, that there is a growing campaign of believers that is sparking a revival! And God Bless you all!
St Gianna Pray for us!
This is over the hump day, and I have been looking at sites as I plan to expand the blog. But today I want to give a brief status report. I had a great meeting with a friend of mine this week, who has been trying to think of ways to bring me into his practice and merge our common interests in offering Catholic Based women's health care. I can promise nothing, but patience
Second, I am following the advice of the administrators I have met where I work now and a proposal is slowly circulating. I will be forwarding this proposal soon to the highest levels of the company and then following up for support. The recent amazing support I have received from several people is moving this ball forward.
You know, Michael Voris is in Dublin this week. Over the last two days, he has laid out in his inimitable style the severe erosion of the faith that is occurring in the land where so many can trace their lineage. I, for one, can attest that while the materialism and new age thinking are well rooted here in America, that there is a growing campaign of believers that is sparking a revival! And God Bless you all!
St Gianna Pray for us!
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Time to come out of the woodwork
Three posts in a day seems just surreal to me....but I could not stay silent. I just had one of the most amazing conversations I have ever had on the subject of God's will and fertility. She told me that there are people out there who are interested in knowing more about the natural alternatives to the evils present in the three pillars.
There is a movement beginning, that I can feel, that may very well bring the St Ann Center for Reproductive Health to life....and may God be praised! If you are someone that sees this too......tell someone! If you want more info.....that will be posted over the next few days!
AMDG
St Gianna, pray for us
Mary, seed of wisdom, pray for us
There is a movement beginning, that I can feel, that may very well bring the St Ann Center for Reproductive Health to life....and may God be praised! If you are someone that sees this too......tell someone! If you want more info.....that will be posted over the next few days!
AMDG
St Gianna, pray for us
Mary, seed of wisdom, pray for us
Islands of Plenty
In my reading this morning, I saw this article which puts far more eloquently than I can the global problem. These forces are at work here in the United States too. It is amazing the lengths that governments will do to "fix" a perceived problem that does not truly exist.
Islands of Plenty
Islands of Plenty
Daily reflections
I am currently waiting for a response to my most recent proposal to begin a clinic that brings the Catholic perspective to women's health care and fertility treatment.
I have found that ibreviary helps me stay focused and have added a link here
More soon!
I have found that ibreviary helps me stay focused and have added a link here
More soon!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
An Indication of the Scope of the Problem
Today, I began putting together some research in preparation of posting some information that might be readily available. When I entered the search term "Natural Family Planning" on the National Library website, I found a very interesting article from the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology from February 2011.
Entitled "Obstetrician-gynecologists' view on contraception and natural family planning: a national survey" Dr Lawrence et al mailed 1800 surveys to OB/GYNs all across the country. They asked if whether these physicians might have a moral or ethical objection to, and whether they would offer 6 common contraceptive methods
Oral Contraceptives
Progesterone implants and/or injections
Intrauterine devices
Diaphragms/Cervical caps
Condoms
Tubal ligation
What I found interesting, and somewhat sad about the result was the attitude of the 262 Catholic OB/GYN's who answered the survey
Overall 4.9% of all US OB/GYN's who answered have a moral or ethical objection to a contraceptive method
2% (20) Catholic OB/GYNs objected to one or more method
8% (23) would not offer 1 or more contraceptive methods
To be fair, the survey found that those doctors who stated that they were more religious (went to church twice a month or more) or that religion was more important to them were more likely to object to contraception.
more telling was the attitude of the Catholic physicians when asked if natural family planning was a poor option for most women. 56% (145) of the Catholic respondents agreed that NFP was a poor option.
The authors actually single out the Catholic physician response in their. They quote Humanae Vitae, and then later comment " ...Among Catholic physicians, who belong to an organization (emp added) that teaches that all birth control except natural family planning is "intrinsically evil", a large percentage had no objections and would provide birth control if requested.
They cite other reports that include a statement that Catholic clients were over represented at early birth control clinics and a catholic news agency article from 2010 that found that 63% of US catholics believe church teachings on condoms should change. Then the kicker statement:
"People who endorse a particular religious affiliation do not necessarily endorse all of that religion's teachings." REALLY?!?
People have to realize that the heresies in the days of King Henry the VIII were created because Martin Luther did not endorse "all of his religions teachings." While I am no theologian, does it take a lifetime of learning to see that the many protestant denominations that have developed over time all come about from the same basic process?
There is an uphill battle convincing people of the dangers of Contraception. Despite recent reports that the FDA is looking at the risk of venous thrombo-embolism, there is no slowing the tide at present. The paper concludes with the statement."Although controversy about contraception has by no means disappeared, it does not appear to be a significant source of division among obstetrician gynecologist physicians in the United States.
An objection to contraception is euphemistically joked about in my institution, where just about, if not all of the OB/GYN offices openly prescribe contraceptives. I see physicians wearing crucifixes around their necks and have IUD pins on their lab coat lapels....
But good news....I recently had a frank discussion with someone who had been on OCP's for 12 years. Due to her "social status" she stopped taking the pills. What she could not believe was how much better she felt. She is sleeping better, has more energy, and overall, feels great! Wouldn't it be wonderful if more people would give themselves the opportunity to feel this way!
St Gianna Pray for us
Entitled "Obstetrician-gynecologists' view on contraception and natural family planning: a national survey" Dr Lawrence et al mailed 1800 surveys to OB/GYNs all across the country. They asked if whether these physicians might have a moral or ethical objection to, and whether they would offer 6 common contraceptive methods
Oral Contraceptives
Progesterone implants and/or injections
Intrauterine devices
Diaphragms/Cervical caps
Condoms
Tubal ligation
What I found interesting, and somewhat sad about the result was the attitude of the 262 Catholic OB/GYN's who answered the survey
Overall 4.9% of all US OB/GYN's who answered have a moral or ethical objection to a contraceptive method
2% (20) Catholic OB/GYNs objected to one or more method
8% (23) would not offer 1 or more contraceptive methods
To be fair, the survey found that those doctors who stated that they were more religious (went to church twice a month or more) or that religion was more important to them were more likely to object to contraception.
more telling was the attitude of the Catholic physicians when asked if natural family planning was a poor option for most women. 56% (145) of the Catholic respondents agreed that NFP was a poor option.
The authors actually single out the Catholic physician response in their. They quote Humanae Vitae, and then later comment " ...Among Catholic physicians, who belong to an organization (emp added) that teaches that all birth control except natural family planning is "intrinsically evil", a large percentage had no objections and would provide birth control if requested.
They cite other reports that include a statement that Catholic clients were over represented at early birth control clinics and a catholic news agency article from 2010 that found that 63% of US catholics believe church teachings on condoms should change. Then the kicker statement:
"People who endorse a particular religious affiliation do not necessarily endorse all of that religion's teachings." REALLY?!?
People have to realize that the heresies in the days of King Henry the VIII were created because Martin Luther did not endorse "all of his religions teachings." While I am no theologian, does it take a lifetime of learning to see that the many protestant denominations that have developed over time all come about from the same basic process?
There is an uphill battle convincing people of the dangers of Contraception. Despite recent reports that the FDA is looking at the risk of venous thrombo-embolism, there is no slowing the tide at present. The paper concludes with the statement."Although controversy about contraception has by no means disappeared, it does not appear to be a significant source of division among obstetrician gynecologist physicians in the United States.
An objection to contraception is euphemistically joked about in my institution, where just about, if not all of the OB/GYN offices openly prescribe contraceptives. I see physicians wearing crucifixes around their necks and have IUD pins on their lab coat lapels....
But good news....I recently had a frank discussion with someone who had been on OCP's for 12 years. Due to her "social status" she stopped taking the pills. What she could not believe was how much better she felt. She is sleeping better, has more energy, and overall, feels great! Wouldn't it be wonderful if more people would give themselves the opportunity to feel this way!
St Gianna Pray for us
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