Galen and Darcy’s Love Story
Real couples really do use NFP, and we asked them to tell us their NFP story. We will be sharing them here on the blog — the good parts and the struggles. Each of these couples is writing their own love story, and have chosen to do so by following God’s plan for marriage.
Here is Galen and Darcy’s story.
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Were you initially skeptical about NFP?
Yes, our doubts were that it was unreliable. We read a few unbiased research-based books, and attending a training with an RN at a local hospital. These experiences gave us the confidence that this is a scientific method.
Was it difficult to learn?
No, it took a few months to get used to, but we quickly became very confident with it.
What has surprised you about using NFP?
I (Darcy) have been so much more in tune with my body, and so much more comfortable discussing my body and cycle with my husband.
Tell us about your transition to NFP from contraception.
I didn’t realize how bad the pill was for me until I was off of it and realized that I am not hypoglycemic, that was just the birth control pill. Hair that I didn’t know I had lost started to grow back. My mood was better; I just felt healthier.
What changed your mind about contraception and caused you to choose NFP?
I was using the pill to control symptoms related to my cycle before getting married. After being married I did not want to be using an abortifacient and wanted to withhold nothing from my husband, including my fertility.
What changes have you seen in the dynamics of your relationship since starting natural family planning?
Better communication, more understanding on my husband’s part to how my body and mood changes with my cycle, and simply better sex off of the pill. Also, when we have to intentionally work to create intimacy outside of sex when trying to avoid pregnancy, it only brings us closer together and makes us happier.
How has NFP affected your relationship with God?
Wonder and awe in how He designed our bodies to do what they are supposed to do. We now have ultimate trust in Him. Knowing that our body has natural times of infertility, and using that knowledge with a little self-control makes contraception unnecessary. Also, having sex without contraception is a much more intimate and trusting experience since we are holding nothing back.
Do you have an NFP love story to share? Contact Ann Gundlach at CCL at 800-745-8252 ext 1033. Or share this story with someone who needs to hear it!
New from CCL! Your Love Story: A Guide to Engagement and Marriage by William Turrentine. Learn more at www.ccli.org/yls.