What is Natural Family Planning (NFP)?
Natural Family Planning is the general title for the scientific, moral methods of family planning that help couples either avoid or achieve pregnancy. NFP supports and respects the dignity of man and woman, and God's design for married love!
The NFP methods are based on the observation of the signs and symptoms of the fertile and infertile phases of a woman's cycle. No artificial hormones, devices, or surgical procedures are used. NFP has the same range of effectiveness as the artificial means (Pill, IUD. Patch, etc.), but without the harmful side effects.
There are several methods of modern Natural Family Planning available. Each method is focused on observing one or more signs of fertility. Click on the following links for more information on class schedules and registration:
The Sympto-Thermal Method identifies a woman’s time of fertility through observing cervical mucus, basal body temperature, and cervical changes.
The Creighton Model FertilityCare™ System (CrMS) is a method based on a woman’s cervical mucus observations. It is highly effective for avoiding pregnancy, achieving pregnancy, and monitoring a women’s gynecological health. It can be used with regular or irregular cycles, breastfeeding, post-pill or IUD, or premenopause. The CrMS charts are used with the science of Natural Procreative (NaPro) Technology to evaluate and monitor reproductive and gynecological health.
Based on over 50 years of ongoing scientific research, the Billings Ovulation Method® is a highly effective yet simple approach. It can work effectively for women whether they are coming off hormonal contraceptives, breastfeeding, weaning, or approaching menopause. Regardless of the particular situation, the four simple rules of the method are the same for everyone.
This model uses a fertility monitor to measure reproductive hormones in the urine along with the method’s algorithm. The approach is suitable for women with regular cycles, irregular cycles, and breastfeeding, postpartum, or approaching menopause.