Hermann Knaus (1892-1970)
Austrian Detective of Fertile Days
The Austrian gynaecologist Hermann Knaus (1892–1970) realised what generations of scientists had puzzled over: that hormones govern the fertile and infertile days of the female cycle. His method of counting days can be applied in two directions: to protect against unwanted pregnancies or to conceive the long-yearned-for, planned child. However, Knaus was far more than just the inventor of a contraceptive method, more than a natural scientist and academic detective. He was an exceptionally gifted and popular doctor, an extraordinary surgeon, an astute expert, the ambitious director of a clinic, a dedicated faculty head, and last but not least, a formative teacher for his students and employees.