When I first started using Natural Family Planning (NFP), my friends thought I had missed out on a little something called the sexual revolution. My gynecologist said she didn't agree with my choice but couldn't stop me. Worst of all, the deacon leading our marriage preparation classes told me to look elsewhere for information and instruction.
Faced with negativity and a dearth of information, I taught myself how to do NFP from the one-page insert that came with the digital thermometer I bought at the local drugstore! Since that day, I have learned much more about NFP, from research in books and on the internet, but mostly from personal experience. In this series of articles, I hope to share what I've learned, all with a personal touch. NFP is not right for everyone, but, if it's right for you, this site can help you practice successfully.
What is NFP?
So, what is NFP? Here's my definition: Natural Family Planning (NFP) is a method of preventing or achieving conception by charting the body's natural fertility signs, such as basal body temperature, cervical fluids, and cervical position. Users of NFP abstain from intercourse (or use a barrier contraceptive) on fertile days to prevent pregnancy or engage in intercourse during fertile days to increase the chance of pregnancy.
What NFP is Not!
Is NFP deserving of its bad name? Not in my experience!
I believe NFP got a bad reputation from a series of myths that many people believe about the method. Let me dispel those myths one by one.
Myth #1: "NFP is an ineffective method of birth control." There's an old joke, "What do you call people who use NFP? Parents!" In fact, NFP is almost 100% effective; that is, about as effective as the birth control pill. It's pretty basic - if you don't have intercourse during your fertile time, you cannot get pregnant. The key is to accurately chart your fertile time, something this column can help you learn to do.
Myth #2: "NFP is just for Catholics." Actually, I am not Catholic, although I am married to one. It is true that Catholics have good reason to practice NFP. However, you don't need a religious reason to practice NFP. People from a variety of backgrounds may choose to use NFP because it is safe, natural, inexpensive, and allows for shared responsibility, to name just a few good reasons.
Myth #3: "NFP is time consuming."
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