Natural Family Planning
Learn How God Designed Your Fertility

Ok, time for some girl talk! :o)

Have you heard of Natural Family Planning? You may assume it's the same as the 'Rhythm Method.'

It is not the same as the 'Rhythm Method,' and I will explain why later.

But first - a little background information.

Ray and I have been using Natural Family Planning since October 2004. It has worked perfectly for us. We have avoided pregnancy when necessary, and we conceived our son, Joshua, exactly when we planned to.

I am a full-believer in this method, because I know it works.

We were using the pill when we got married, and switched to NFP 2 months later. We stopped the pill after I did some research and found out how it really works. I was horrified. We found NFP as the perfect alternative.

So, let's talk a little about NFP. I will answer the following questions.

1. What is Natural Family Planning? Is it effective? Healthy? Safe?

2. How do most birth control methods really work?

3. How do I learn Natural Family Planning?

What is Natural Family Planning? Is it effective? Healthy? Safe?

Modern NFP is the scientific method of family planning.

The Basics...

You basically learn the signs of fertility and infertility that God built into the female human body.

This involves taking your temperature every morning, and observing the daily changes in your cervix and cervical mucus. Then, you simply record everything on a chart.

When these three indicators work together - and they do! - you will start to learn your monthly fertility.

It sounds like a hassle, but It really becomes second nature. It's just as easy as 'popping a pill' every day (in my opinion!).

To avoid pregnancy - you do not have intercourse when you are most fertile.

~~~~Side Note~~~~

I have found - You can also use a condom during the fertile time. It is the only other method that does not interfere with your hormones and fertility.

The NFP book is produced by the Catholic 'Couple to Couple League' and they only endorse Natural Family Planning. They do not really allow any other birth control. If you are Catholic - that is perfectly fine. No worries! :o)

We have determined that spermicide-free condoms are ok. They are simply a 'barrier method.' They do not interfere with your hormones or fertility like other birth control methods. But you need to double check their effectiveness, and use them correctly.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

After the fertile 'window' you are safe to enjoy relations without the possibility of pregnancy (unless you ovulate twice, which is extremely rare!).

To achieve pregnancy - you have intercourse during your 'fertile window'. You will learn exactly when that is!

You will have the best possible chance of conceiving during that time.

Keep in mind - this is an overly simplified introduction to NFP. You should learn the whole system - to make sure you are interpreting your signs correctly.

Does NFP Only Work With Consistently Perfect Cycles?

Most women do not have 100% consistent monthly cycles. NFP will work with your cycle - no matter how long or short.

"The Art of Natural Family Planning" has a complete section on 'Special Situations.' It includes a chapter dedicated to 'Cycle Irregularities.'

Is NFP Effective?

If you follow NFP correctly - it's over 99% effective in avoiding pregnancy.

That's a better rate than many other harmful methods!

Ray and I learned NFP completely in about 3 months. But, we were using the method - very carefully! - during the first month after we got the book and materials. For us, it's been 100% effective in both postponing and achieving pregnancy.

It does take some discipline and effort - but the minimal effort is so worth it!

I find it empowering to really know my cycle. Fertility is not a big mystery, once you understand how everything works!

Is NFP Healthy?

Absolutely! :o)

NFP eliminates the need for birth control chemicals and devices. That is a healthy start!

It also improves your health in 2 big ways.

1. When you chart your NFP progress - you can quickly discover any cycle irregularities or changes. These changes can warn you of serious medical problems.

Sometimes your cycle will fluctuate due to nutritional or weight imbalances, which are easily fixed.

But, occasionally women will detect serious health problems, and they can get medical help much sooner.

2. Natural Family Planning will encourage better nutrition - because you are more aware of your body's health and well-being.

It may not be obvious, but good nutrition plays an important role in your fertility.

Proper nutrition, exercise, and the right amount of body fat - will help to stabilize your cycle.

It's wonderful to be in tune with your body!

Is NFP Safe?

Absolutely! Yes!

The book says it best, "you simply observe the signs of fertility and infertility that God built into female human nature. What could be more safe and in tune with nature?"

NFP uses no birth control drugs or devices. You only need your book, your charts, and your thermometer!

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