PART V - THE MAJOR ISSUES

Contraception

While planning your family can have merit, artificial means of contraception cause a variety of problems and have subtle but serious implications for society and marriages.  A far better alternative is Natural Family Planning (NFP), which is extremely effective and strengthens the bond between husband and wife.

There is an old joke that goes: Question - What do you call couples that practice the Rhythm Method? Answer - Parents.  Many people confuse NFP with the Rhythm Method, but they are not the same thing.  NFP is more scientific. NFP is not fool-proof, but neither is artificial contraception. A number of studies have shown that NFP can be 99% effective, and just as effective as the most effective unnatural means.  In addition, NFP does not:

1. Pose health risks to the mother (e.g. the pill can cause blood clots, etc.),
    
2. Impose a risk to later fertility (unlike drugs and medical procedures), and
    
3. Interfere with prescription medication.

In addition, NFP:

1. Is low cost (once you learn it, there are no continuing costs),
    
2. Is morally acceptable by all major religions, and
    
3. Is immediately reversible.

Natural Family Planning (NFP) is a commitment which keeps both spouses aware of the procreative and spiritual aspects of marital lovemaking, and keeps interest and anticipation high through brief periods of abstinence. The specialness of the marital bond is strengthened, which typically reduces the temptation to infidelity.  In addition, the mindset which is created makes abortion unacceptable when failures occur.

There is good evidence that there is a significantly lower divorce rate among couples who practice NFP. Click here for more information.