Responsible Contraception

This flow traces Katherine’s growing understanding that love and desire must be accompanied by practical protection against pregnancy and disease.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Warnings from Family

Risk Enters the Conversation Grandmother’s warning Hallie Gross advises Katherine to think about pregnancy and venereal disease, even though Katherine insists that she and Michael are not having intercourse. The blunt warning embarrasses her but introduces concrete risks. Beyond assumptions Katherine resents the assumption that young couples are sexually active simply because they are in love. Still, the advice plants questions she will later address for herself.

Michael’s Past Infection

Trust and Disclosure A bad joke Katherine jokes about venereal disease, and Michael reacts seriously because he once contracted an infection after a brief sexual encounter in Maine. His disclosure changes the tone of their conversation. A risk made personal Michael says he has recovered, but Katherine objects to the risks he took and wonders about the unknown partner. The episode shows that trust alone cannot establish someone’s current sexual-health status.

Grandmother’s Pamphlets

Information Arrives A private gift Hallie sends Katherine materials about birth control, abortion, and sexually transmitted disease. Katherine initially feels that her grandmother has jumped to conclusions, then recognizes that the information is useful. Turning knowledge into action Rather than relying only on reassurance from Michael, Katherine starts to think about her own protection. The pamphlets lead her toward seeking professional advice.

Obtaining the Pill

A Practical Decision Seeking care Katherine visits the Margaret Sanger Clinic and tells the counselor she wants to prevent pregnancy. She answers questions about her sexual history and receives a medical examination. A chosen method After discussing options with the doctor, Katherine chooses oral contraception and receives instructions about taking it. She treats contraception as her responsibility rather than an assumption that love will keep her safe.

Sharing the News

Protection Becomes Shared Telling Michael Katherine tells Michael she has obtained the Pill, and he responds with relief and approval. The conversation makes clear that she acted on her own judgment, not at his request. A continuing obligation The Pill reduces the risk of pregnancy but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. The novel’s later author’s note broadens the point: responsible sexual activity requires attention to both pregnancy and disease.

During the early weeks of Katherine and Michael’s relationship

During a date after Michael returns from skiing

Late spring, before Katherine’s appointment

The Friday of Katherine’s New York visit

Katherine’s eighteenth birthday evening