Chuck and Laura’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 Chuck and Laura’s story.

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Were you initially skeptical about NFP?

Yes, we wondered about the efficacy. Learning the method that worked best for us, regular consultation with our instructor, and a willingness to be patient showed us that we could effectively use NFP.

Was NFP difficult to learn?

No. Everything was clearly laid out. It was great having materials on our hands. My husband found it vastly interesting, which helped.

Has anything surprised you about NFP?

The ease with which knowledgeable practitioners can pinpoint things like hormonal issues based entirely on my observations. It’s awesome!

Who participates in observations, charting and interpreting?

Both of us. My husband looks at my chart or asks about it regularly. He always knows just where I am in my cycle.

What aspects of contraception are you glad you left behind?

The side effects, and especially knowing that we’re not unknowingly losing little souls.

What changes have you seen in the dynamics of your relationship since starting natural family planning?

We have better communication, especially in the realm of babies.

Did you and your spouse ever disagree on NFP?

We’ve only ever disagreed mildly about whether to chart to avoid pregnancy once. In that case, we found it best to chart to avoid, and continue to pray for the Holy Spirit to make clear to us what God’s plan for our family was.

Has NFP affected your relationship with God?

Positively. We’ve increased our prayer to always be discerning His plan for our family. We’ve learned to trust Him.

Does practicing NFP help you to better understand the Church’s teaching on contraception?

Yes. Hearing how God designed our bodies and learning that every single part of that design allows us to work with Him to bring about new life just amazed us. It’s given us a deeper appreciation for the way Holy Mother Church provides wisdom for marriage and family planning.

New from CCL! Your Love Story: A Guide to Engagement and Marriage by William Turrentine. Learn more at www.ccli.org/yls.