NFP Basics

Natural Family Planning (NFP) is a general term for scientific methods of effectively achieving or postponing pregnancy by tracking naturally occuring signs of fertility associated with a woman's menstrual cycle.  NFP is sometimes called Fertility Awareness Based Methods (FABMs). 

Just as heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature are indicators of your body's general health, fertility signs are indicators of reproductive health. These external signs are regulated by hormones which influence not only your reproductive system but also your general health.  Charting tracks the physical signs as they change throughout your menstrual cycle in order to identify times of fertility and create a personal health record. 
What signs are charted and which NFP methods use these signs?

Different methods of NFP have been developed based upon various signs of fertility.  To choose an NFP method, first do some research; click on an NFP method listed below for a fact sheet with information and links.  Still not sure which best fits your lifestyle and goals?   Try this fun interactive quiz to choose an NFP method.

Instruction from a trained educator is key to using NFP effectively and confidently.   Find local on-site classes as well as online options on our NFP Classes page.  Visit our NFP Resources page for links to charting apps, websites, and Catholic teaching which provide support for living the NFP lifestyle.