Natural Family Planning (NFP) is an umbrella term for certain methods used to achieve and postpone pregnancies. It is not the "rythym method." These methods are based on observation of the naturally occurring signs and symptoms of the fertile and infertile phases of a woman's menstrual cycle. Couples using NFP to avoid pregnancy abstain from intercourse during the fertile phase of the woman's cycle. No drugs, devices or surgical procedures are used to avoid pregnancy. NFP reflects the dignity of the human person within the context of marriage and family life, promotes openness to life, and recognizes the value of the child. By respecting both the love-giving and life-giving natures of marriage, NFP can enrich the bond between husband and wife.
In NFP both spouses are taught to understand the nature of fertility and work with it, either to plan a pregnancy or to postpone a pregnancy. Couples who use NFP soon learn that they have a shared responsibility for family planning. Husbands are encouraged to speak openly and frankly about their sexual desires and their ideas on family size and to be supportive to their wives in the mutual decision.
Other benefits include:
low cost
no side effects
effectiveness for achieving, spacing or limiting pregnancy
can be used throughout the reproductive life cycle
marriage enrichment and mutual understanding
appreciation for the value of a child
fosters respect for and acceptance of the total person
morally acceptable
NFP Certified Teachers in the Diocesan Area:
Mark and Maureen Trettel, Milford, MA; 508-634-3865,
Course dates and time, and information on the Trettel's
John and Celina Dellamorte, Bi-Lingual English-Spanish. Sandwich, MA;
508-833-9535
Course dates and times, and information about the Dellamorte's