Hi all 
The ethical issues around mandatory contraception are also fairly straightforward.  Certainly administering treatment without first obtaining informed consent would be considered medical battery in most societies which value the rights of the individual and have established tort-law.
Mothers are entitled to know that the use of hormonal contraception in the days and weeks following birth is not recommended by the manufacturer or by public health authorities and is likely to prevent them from establishing breastfeeding.  It might be worth comparing the cost of the shot with the cost of a year's worth of infant formula and extra doctor visits for the baby.  I am surprised that the risk-management departments of the hospitals involved have not been issuing large red memos instructing people to cease and desist immediately. 
Discussion of the merits or otherwise of 'abstinence-only' programmes is outside the scope of this list.  It suffices to say that the issue has been settled almost everywhere in the world.
Nina Berry
Australia

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