WHAT IS NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING?
Natural Family Planning (NFP) is a term used to describe certain methods used to achieve and avoid pregnancies. Contrary to popular belief, the Catholic Church has never been against family planning. As Catholics, we are called to responsibility in our parenthood, considering first what God asks of us, what is good for us as a couple, our family and society in general. The only viable alternative to artificial birth control, Natural Family Planning is a safe, natural means to conform a couple’s fertility in accordance with God’s plan.
The USCCB states “NFP methods are based on the observation of the naturally occurring signs and symptoms of the fertile and infertile phases of a woman’s menstrual cycle. No drugs, devices, or surgical procedures are used to avoid pregnancy.
Since the methods of NFP respect the love-giving (unitive) and life-giving (procreative) nature of the conjugal act, they support God’s design for married love!”
For more information, view the following videos. (VIdeos are for Diocese of Venice use only and are password protected. Contact Carrie Harkey, harkey@dioceseofvenice.org for the password.)
Pastoral Accompaniment and Natural Family Planning
The Language of the Body for Single Women
For additional resources with a fun twist – visit Real NFP Talk, TOTAL W(H)INE!
