'Call the Midwife' Recap: Series 5 Episode 7

Autumn is approaching in Poplar as evidenced by the glut of donated apples left on the doorstep of Nonnatus House. Plus there’s a simultaneous full moon and a big storm brewing. How much foreshadowing do we need to understand that a mini-baby boom is on its way? I’m also happy to report that this penultimate episode of series five features the long-awaited return of a beloved character so let’s get on with examining the events of this week’s Call the Midwife.

The Pill Comes to Poplar – Granted Doctor Turner is a very dedicated and forward thinking physician most of the time, but I don’t think we’ve ever seen him this enthusiastic about the arrival of any other medical advancement. I’m referring of course to the miraculous contraceptive pill. As we learn from his discussion with Sister Julienne, who is unable to mask her disapproval, his patients won’t have to be referred to the family planning clinic but can receive a prescription directly from him. This makes it possible for him to distribute this contraceptive to unmarried women. Sister Julienne is so uncomfortable with the implications of this development that she requests a plainer biscuit from Shelagh who she obviously sees as having lost some of her former nunly morals by her offer of a lemon puff.

After prayer and reflection, Sister Julienne invites Dr. Turner to the house to present a seminar to the midwives on the history and efficacy of the Pill. Vicar Tom has been invited along by the head nun as she apparently hopes to get some spiritual support and a Christian perspective from his presence.