Ethical advantages of fertility awareness based methods

Abstract

Fertility, reproduction, and sexual activity were always central to the human experience and their significance and impact on the individual and the community are still crucial today. This dissertation focuses on female fertility, the importance of fertility awareness (FA) and the many ethical advantages of Fertility Awareness Based Methods (FABMs). It explains that FABMs are methods that use natural observable changes occurring during a menstrual cycle to help women monitor their general and reproductive health. In doing so, they will be able to identify menstrual irregularities and other gynaecological problems at a very early stage. FABMs also help women to identify infertile, potential fertile and fertile times, which knowledge is also important for family planning. This study explores the virtuous dimension of FABM practice that deals with these natural functions in a human holistic manner and promotes decisions based on prudent reasoning. In a world that seems to submit itself to a technocratic mindset, the use of FABMs is an example of the “ecological conversion” proposed in the encyclical Laudato Sì. Consequently, the ethical value of FABMs does not pertain to any religious domain, but can be appreciated and applied by all individuals, irrespective of status, culture, and creed. The first chapter introduces FA and FABMs. The focus of the second chapter brings to light the health, and therefore ethical, advantages of FA and FABMs, particularly regarding women's sexual, reproductive, and general health, family planning, couple relationships and growth in virtue. The third chapter explores the practice of FABMs in Malta. The dissertation concludes by presenting education as a way forward to help young girls and women identify fertility health risks and protect their future fertility. Such education will also help in the promotion of FABMs as a practice that benefits the individual woman, couples, and society.