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What is Natural Family Planning?

Natural Family Planning (NFP) refers to the practice of avoiding or achieving pregnancy according to an informed awareness of a woman's fertility. It can also refer to the spacing of pregnancies through Ecological Breastfeeding.

Consider ...

The marital act is so holy and so pure that it should never be desecrated through the use of artificial contraception. The Catholic Church understands, however, that there may be times when "... responsible parenthood is exercised... by the decision, made for grave motives and with due respect for the moral law, to avoid for the time being... a new birth" (Humanae Vitae, n. 10). On the other hand, couples also may be experiencing infertility and need to understand the rhythms' of the woman's cycle. At these times, couples should use Natural Family Planning (NFP).

What we provide ...

We are a group of lay Christians providing instruction in the Sympto-thermal method of Natural Family Planning, or NFP. This method allows couples to be thoroughly knowledgeable of their mutual fertility for the purpose of achieving or avoiding pregnancy by monitoring multiple signs. It also includes the natural spacing that results from a form of nursing we call “ecological breastfeeding.” The Sympto-thermal method is 99.9% effective in preventing pregnancy. It is safe (all-natural), moral, and completely and immediately reversible when a pregnancy is desired. It is also a highly effective way for couples struggling with infertility to achieve pregnancy. All teachers have been professionally trained and certified by The Couple to Couple League

What are classes like?

All classes are taught by CCL trained and certified teachers. Class series usually consist of 4 classes and last 2-3 hours (check schedule for special class formats). Classes are $75, which includes all materials (book, thermometer, charts, and Family Foundations subscription). Teaching couples always provide follow-up counseling, if needed, even after classes have ended. And, as CCL members you can always retake classes for free. Click on "Local Class Schedules" to your left to see upcoming classes.

No Harmful Side Effects ...

Unlike unnatural birth control methods, which place the risk and responsibility on the man and woman alone, NFP allows couples to become independent from potentially harmful artificial methods that require long-term dependence on drugs, devices, physicians, government programs, or even teachers.

Marriage Insurance ...

With the national divorce rate at approximately 50%, couples who practice NFP experience a divorce rate of less than 2%! Couples report that periodic abstinence helps keep their relationship fresh, improves their communication, and gives them a deeper respect for each other and marriage .

Want to teach NFP?

If Natural Family Planning has blessed your marriage, consider becoming a teaching couple or promoter. This is a rewarding ministry with a need for good people. Call Jim or Jill at 504-366-1006. Want a class near you or need a speaker for your church or group?
Call Jill at 504-366-1006 for details.