In the relation we bear to the public, what use shall we make of our knowledge of the evil effects of venereal disease? / by Albert Vanderveer.

  • Vander Veer, A. (Albert), 1841-1929.
Date:
1911
Catalogue details

Licence: In copyright

Credit: In the relation we bear to the public, what use shall we make of our knowledge of the evil effects of venereal disease? / by Albert Vanderveer. Source: Wellcome Collection.

Provider: This material has been provided by The Royal College of Surgeons of England. The original may be consulted at The Royal College of Surgeons of England.

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    more and more, enable investigators who have the means, who have the inclination, to do something that will benefit woman- kind? It is true much is being accomplished by public lectures on sex hygiene, such as are being delivered in Chicago, New York, Boston and other large cities, but it rests largely with the mem- bers of our profession to present the subject in an intelligent and acceptable manner. Good must result from imparting to the seeker after truth such knowledge as we have in our profession. If the damage done to the reproductive organs by the diseases to which I have referred were known to the contracting parties, is it not reasonable to believe there would be a less number of divorces? It is now plainly recognized that there is no part of our physical system so persistent in its demands as that of the reproductive organs, and we may consider it as we please, but the plain facts are before us. There is no better way of meeting it. than to make the public understand all the dangers that surround the violation of clean, wholesome living, so far as the sexual organs and passions are concerned. It is not to be denied there is much in our present methods of living that deters many young men and women from marrying, because of the responsibilities that follow, as they believe in meeting all financial obligations, but there must be a solution of this problem, resting only upon the respect that the sexes have for each other. I am sure I state the truth when I say there is yet above all other conditions, such as social power and wealth, whatever may be the temptation, love for children remaining. Note the record of men and women who seek the adoption of a child. A fair percentage state frankly they are unable to have children because of some damage to the reproductive organs, as an error at one time in their life. I am impressed with the fact that what has already been accomplished by our Association, and by our pro- fession in general affords much encouragement. I am sure we are dealing with a people who desire a plain statement of facts, be it the social evil or otherwise. Above all let us present the facts to our children in such a manner that they may not hesitate to call the sexual organs by their proper names. Let them understand, when planting white and black seed corn side by side how a mixing of the two occurs. Teach them early the fertilizing of the egg and why one setting produces thirteen chicks and another nine or less. Save the boy and girl from past ignorance regarding their reproductive organs. If we do not advance in the understanding