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Hey newly engaged couples, congratulations! You are getting married (cue wedding bells). I am sure you have thought about the wedding day. Who you will invite. Where you will have your reception. What kind of cake you will eat. But what form of NFP have you chosen?
Deciding which form of Natural Family Planning (NFP) to use can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s important to find the best one for you and your fiancé. In previous blogs, we’ve touched on this topic, but today we’re laying it all out! This post is for engaged couples trying to navigate the NFP landscape and make an informed choice. Choosing the right NFP method is essential for a healthy and harmonious start to married life.
What is NFP?
For those new to our blog, let’s review the basics. Natural Family Planning involves checking and recording fertility signs to determine when you're more or less likely to get pregnant. Some methods use devices, while others rely on biological markers. The best part? NFP is completely natural, does not involve suppressing your natural hormones, and can align with personal and religious beliefs. It’s a fantastic way to start a marriage.
Communication and Mutual Respect
Entering marriage with strong communication skills and mutual respect is crucial. Using an NFP method daily encourages couples to discuss fertility regularly. This constant communication empowers you both with knowledge about your bodies, enhancing your ability to achieve or avoid pregnancy.
Exploring NFP Methods
Let’s dive into the various NFP methods available:
The Billings Ovulation Method
The Billings Ovulation Method teaches you to recognize your body's natural signals of fertility—primarily cervical mucus. You determine your fertility based on mucus that feels slippery or wet and looks clear or like egg whites. This method is simple and requires no equipment, but you need to be diligent about observing and interpreting mucus daily. If you’re consistent, this method could be for you. For more information, visit the Billings Method association website.
The Sympto-Thermal Method
The Sympto-Thermal Method (STM) combines observations of cervical fluid, basal body temperature, and other biological signs to identify fertile and infertile times. This method provides precise information by cross-checking multiple symptoms, which can boost your confidence. However, it requires consistent daily observations, such as taking your temperature at the same time each day. If you’re ready to commit to this complexity, visit the Couple to Couple League website for more details.
The Marquette Method
The Marquette Method incorporates urine hormonal monitoring technology to estimate the fertile window accurately. This modern, evidence-based system is easy and accurate, using a monitor that reads your hormones. It’s particularly useful for those with regular cycles but can be more expensive due to the necessary supplies. Learn more on the Marquette Method website.
Highlighting the Creighton Model FertilityCare System
What is the Creighton Model? This method relies on standardized observation and charting of biological markers essential to a woman’s health and fertility. These biomarkers indicate when a couple is naturally fertile or infertile and can also reveal health abnormalities. The Creighton Model not only helps manage fertility but also enhances overall health understanding.
Why Couples Love the Creighton Model
Tailored to You: The Creighton Model is customized to your situation and supports you through every life season.
Highly Reliable: Extensive research shows it’s up to 98.7% effective for avoiding pregnancy, matching the effectiveness of many contraceptives.
"Creighton Charm": Using this method feels like having a team—your spouse and a FertilityCare Practitioner—supporting you every step of the way.
Our center is passionate about this system because it offers personalized, comprehensive care. It’s rewarding to guide couples from engagement through marriage, parenthood, and beyond.
Making Your Choice
Consider what you want from NFP and your family planning goals. Your choice depends on your lifestyle, comfort with technology, and need for support. Here are some points to help you decide:
Marquette Method: Great for tech-savvy couples.
Creighton Model: Ideal if you want thorough, personalized support, and if you have previously know gynecological issues.
Sympto-Thermal Method: Suitable for couples confident in a DIY approach.
My Final Thoughts
Maybe you find this information helpful (I hope so). Maybe you feel like this is tuff you've already heard. Either way I think it is important to explore your options and realize what exactly it is that you want for your marriage. Research, discuss, and evaluate your needs. Ask questions, seek advice from those who use different methods, and consider your unique situation. For couples facing fertility issues like PCOS, the Creighton Model offers a natural approach to managing symptoms.
Remember, finding the right NFP method is part of your journey together. God calls married couples to “accept children lovingly from God and bring them up according to the law of Christ and his Church.” Embrace this call by choosing the best method for you.
Ready to find your perfect NFP match? Share your experiences and questions with us in the comments below!
With this informative guide, you’ll be well on your way to finding the ideal NFP method that suits your lifestyle and family planning goals. Happy planning!
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