Description
The book “The Great Discoveries” by Thomas W. Hilgers, MD, outlines five significant developments in natural human fertility over the past century, centered around the CREIGHTON MODEL FertilityCare™ System and NaProTECHNOLOGY®:
- Standardized Observations: Initiated in 1976, the development of a universal, authentic language for women to describe cervical mucus observations improved communication and accuracy. This standardization, validated through over 400 pelvic exams and photographic documentation, led to the Picture Dictionary of the CREIGHTON MODEL, enhancing fertility tracking.
- Verification of the Biological Valve: Research confirmed the cervical mucus as a “biological valve” that facilitates or prevents sperm passage, correlating with fertility phases. Studies, including those by Dr. Eric Odeblad, identified distinct mucus types (E and G), with channels enabling sperm migration during fertile periods.
- Discovering the “Time of Fertility”: The work shifted focus from ovulation timing to the fertile window, defined by cervical mucus presence, lasting 4-6 days around ovulation. This was supported by hormonal and ultrasound correlations, enabling precise fertility identification for achieving or avoiding pregnancy.
- Applications to Women’s Health Care (NaProTECHNOLOGY): Standardized observations enabled NaProTECHNOLOGY, a life-affirming medical approach addressing infertility, PMS, and other conditions by targeting hormonal dysfunctions and using adhesion-preventive surgery, outperforming IVF in some infertility cases.
- Developing Professionalism: Since 1978, professional training programs, including certification for practitioners and medical consultants, were established. The American Academy of FertilityCare™ Professionals and a fellowship program at the Saint Paul VI Institute have trained professionals globally, advancing reproductive healthcare.
These discoveries, rooted in rigorous research and endorsed by experts like Dr. Rudolf Vollman in 1977, have transformed natural family planning and women’s reproductive health, offering effective, scientifically grounded alternatives.
