The Three Models of NFP
Learning the "Creighton Model" of NFP:
The learning schedule is designed to meet the individual needs of each new client couple who enter the Natural Family Planning program. Adequate instruction is essential for gaining confidence in the method and obtaining the maximum effectiveness possible. The couple enters the program with an introductory session and continues in the program with a series of individualized follow-up teaching appointments.
The Introductory Session: The introductory session is a slide presentation which introduces interested couples to the use of the Ovulation Method. It is a general presentation usually given to a small group of couples. An individual introductory session can be scheduled as the need arises. One can register for the introductory session by contacting one of the Natural Family Planning Practitioners listed below.
Individualized Follow-Up Sessions: Follow-up sessions are designed to teach couples to be actual users of the Ovulation Method. Personal instruction on the use of the method, as well as complete chart review, are services provided at the individual follow-up sessions. Scheduled at regular intervals, attendance is essential so the couple may quickly develop confidence in the use of the method. After the introductory session, the follow-up sessions occur on the following basic schedule:
Follow-up session # 1 — 2-weeks
Follow-up session # 2 — 4-weeks
Follow-up session # 3 — 6-weeks
Follow-up session # 4 — 8-weeks
Follow-up session # 5 — 3-months
Follow-up session # 6 — 6-months
Follow-up session # 7 — 9-months
Follow-up session # 8 — 12-months
Subsequent follow-ups recommended every six to twelve months as needed. The professional natural family planning teacher is also available for your consultation between sessions should any questions arise.
Learning the "Couple to Couple League" Method of NFP:
The Couple to Couple League (CCL) is an international, interfaith, non-profit organization dedicated to teaching Natural Family Planning to married and engaged couples. It is essentially a volunteer organization whose services are provided by professionally-trained volunteers who are supported by a small staff at the international headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio. CCL has been instructing Natural Family Planning since 1972.
CCL teaches the sympto-thermal method of NFP which entails the understanding and interpretation of temperature, mucus, and cervical changes. All of these symptoms, when crosschecked, provide a woman with a very accurate interpretation of her individual cycle and a full picture of fertility awareness.
The classes consist of 4 sessions, usually spaced one month apart. Each class lasts about 2 hours. Counseling is provided by any local teaching couple or by contacting CCL central headquaters directly. The fee for this course is $70, which includes the NFP manual, charts, a digital basal thermometer, a "Contraception Why Not" tape, a collection of informative pamphlets, and a one-year subscription to the CCL newsletter. Couples that have previously been through the course may also attend a refresher course free of charge. If a teacher is not available in your area, a home-study course is also available.
In the local area, Teaching Couples and Promoters form chapters. In addition, to its NFP work, CCL produces audio-visual presentations and publications on several related subjects, such as pre-marital chastity, introductions to NFP for young people and marriage preparation groups, and materials encouraging full-time mothering.
Learning the "Billings Ovulation" Method of NFP:
The Billings Method is a natural way to achieve or avoid pregnancy through making observations of biological markers that indicate fertility. Based on four commonsense guidelines the method can be used by women with long or short cycles. It can also be used by a woman who is breastfeeding, approaching menopause, recovering from stress or coming off contraceptive medication. The daily chart is very important in reminding the woman to pay attention to the changes in sensation and the appearance of any discharge.