Welcome to the Diocese of Lansing’s Introduction to Natural Family Planning (NFP) page. This introduction is designed for anyone who wants to learn more about NFP, but it is required for all engaged couples who plan to marry in the diocese. It differs from introductions to specific methods and cannot be replaced by any other program. To help everyone attend, the Diocese of Lansing offers this introduction both in person and online and does not charge anyone to attend.
The program is divided into two sessions (consecutive if in-person) designed to provide a foundation for understanding why the Church teaches what it does about conjugal love, as well as an overview of how NFP works from a biological perspective.
Part 1 of this introduction provides a brief overview of the Theology of the Body and an in-depth look at various sections of the Humanae vitae.
The second part of this introduction presents the actual effectiveness rates for preventing pregnancy, achieving pregnancy, and preventing pregnancy during the postpartum period or while breastfeeding. This information is generally hard to find, but it is important for couples seeking to determine which method will work best for them. It explains which hormones and biomarkers are monitored using the various NFP methods, as well as the potential reasons (e.g., polycystic ovary syndrome) why certain methods may be less effective (or ineffective) for some women. The second part also covers assisted reproductive technologies, including IVF, and answers basic questions about the methods available in the diocese and how to sign up to learn about them.
To register, please fill out the form below.