Natural Family Planning
Benefits of Natural Family Planning
Safe
Unlike many contraceptives, Natural Planning is totally free from medical side effects. The hormonal contraceptives (such as the "Pill", the "Shot", the "Patch", implants, etc.) commonly produce side effects such as headaches, weight gain, irritability, and loss of sexual interest by the women. In the long term, there are severe, even life-threatening risks including breast cancer, blood clots, strokes, heart attacks, temporary or permanent loss of fertility, with NFP, all of these risks are avoided.
Healthy
A woman using NFP has a greater sense of her body, and an "early-warning" system for some fertility and general health issues. As one doctor puts it, "NFP" users are my best patients because of their knowledge of their own bodies. They become partners with me in their own health care. Fertility is not a disease needing medical treatment, but a healthy, normal condition to be respected.
Effective
When it is used properly, NFP is just as effective in preventing pregnancy as the most effective contraceptives, hormonal methods such as the Pill. Unlike the Pill, NFP does not have the negative medical or moral side effects of contraception. In extreme situations, such as serious medical risks of pregnancy, a more conservative approach to NFP would be more reliable than the Pill. It is important to note that NFP is not the same thing as the "rhythm system".
Low Cost
NFP is cheap. There is a fee for classes, but after that there are almost no ongoing costs. Compared to the cost of contraceptives, NFP "pays for itself" in a few months.
Morally Right
The Catholic Church condemns the use of contraceptives as morally wrong. Natural approaches, however, are morally good when used in the context of Responsible Parenthood. Couples are called to be generous in having the children they have the resources to raise, while being prudent in evaluating and using their resources in an unselfish way. (see the encyclical "Humanae Vitae" by Pope Paul VI.)
Couples should also be aware that the Pill and the other hormonal contraceptives do not always prevent ovulation. A baby may be conceived, but when the little one tries to implant in the uterine lining, it finds the lining not properly developed. As a result, the baby is aborted. Typically, most doctors do not tell women that the Pill sometimes causes abortions this way, though the information is in small print in the package insert.
Helpful in Achieving Pregnancy
About 20% of couples marrying today are expected to have some fertility issues. NFP can help some of these people, by naturally indicating the best time each month for achieving pregnancy.
Good for Marriages
NFP users report high levels of satisfaction in marriage, and their divorce rate is less than 5%. NFP ensures that the most intimate moments in marriage are consistent with the marriage vows, which pledge a love that is free, total, faithful and fruitful.
Good for Children
NFP is good for children in two ways. First, it moves the husband and the wife to perceive children as a blessing, rather than as a burden. Second, it helps the mother and father to communicate the values of chastity, so important for the successful negotiation of the adolescent years. Parents who use NFP have more credibility with their children.
Saint John Vianney is hosting 2 3-Class series' on the Standard Sympto-Thermal Method: Tuesdays, from 7-9pm in the Audio Visual Room unless otherwise noted. March 16, April 13 and May 11. Second series: August 10, Sept. 6 and Oct. 5.
For questions or to register, contact:
Joe and Cinda DeVet
713-683-8544
or Yvonne Gill,
Babysitting available - 281-584-2022 (Reserve at least one week in advance)
Other classes or information on Natural Family Planning are available from