"I don't need Natural Family Planning; I need something that works."
This is the biggest myth about NFP — that it is the old "Rhythm Method" (guessing based on a calendar). Modern NFP is fertility awareness based on biomarkers. It is science, not guesswork.
How It Works
A woman's body gives clear signs when she is fertile (about 5-7 days per cycle). NFP teaches couples to read these signs.
- To avoid pregnancy: Abstain during the fertile window.
- To achieve pregnancy: Target the fertile window.
The Methods
- Marquette Method: Uses a Clearblue fertility monitor to test urine hormones. Very objective (98-99% effective). Great for postpartum.
- Creighton Model: Tracks cervical mucus observations. Very detailed. Great for diagnosing health issues (NaproTechnology).
- Sympto-Thermal: Tracks mucus + basal body temperature.
Why Not Contraception?
Contraception says: "I give myself to you, but NOT my fertility." It holds a part of the person back. NFP says: "I give all of myself to you. We will abstain for a few days because we invite God into our family planning, but I am not altering my body to be sterile." It demands self-control, communication, and respect.
The Benefits
- No side effects: No artificial hormones, blood clot risks, or libido kill.
- Shared responsibility: It is not just the woman's job; the husband must participate in the charting and abstinence.
- Better communication: You have to talk about your sex life and your family goals every month.
FAQ
Is it hard?
It has a learning curve. Taking a class is essential.
Is it "Catholic Contraception"?
No. Contraception breaks the act (sterilizing it). NFP respects the act by refraining from it during fertile times. The intention to avoid pregnancy may be the same, but the means matter. (Just as killing grandma and waiting for grandma to die naturally both result in death, but one is murder and one is life).
Love is free, total, faithful, and fruitful. Learn more about the theology of marriage on the MyPrayerTower app.