There are seven NFP Methods Offered in the Diocese of Phoenix.
1. Sympto-Thermal Method (ST)
For the Sympto-Thermal Method of NFP, observations are made daily of the following biomarkers: cervical mucus, vaginal sensation, basal body temperature, and optional cervical changes. These observations are then recorded daily on a chart. You will be taught to cross-check and interpret these signs to determine the beginning and end of the fertile phase in the menstrual cycle along with the rules for postponing or achieving pregnancy.
CLASS DURATION: Please take into account the following when making your plans to attend a class of ST (SymptoThermal Method) – Introductory class, as well as second and third class sessions are teaching classes that last approximately 2-2.5 hours. The last follow up class is scheduled between you and your instructor within the time for your class and last approximately 45 minutes.
2. Creighton Model (CrMs)
For the Creighton Model of NFP, observations are made daily of the biomarkers of cervical mucus and its various qualities. These observations are then recorded daily on a chart. You will be taught to cross-check and interpret these observations to determine the beginning and end of the fertile phase in the menstrual cycle along with the rules for postponing or achieving pregnancy.
CLASS DURATION: Please take into account the following when making your plans to attend a CrMS (Creighton Method) Class – Introductory class is a teaching class that lasts approximately 2.5 hours. Follow up classes are scheduled between you and your instructor within the time for your class and last approximately 45 minutes.
3. Family of the Americas Foundation Ovulation Method (FAF)
For the Family of Americas Foundation Ovulation Method , observations are made daily of the biomarkers of cervical mucus and vaginal sensations. These observations are then recorded daily on a chart. You will be taught to cross-check and interpret these observations to determine the beginning and end of the fertile phase in the menstrual cycle along with the rules for postponing or achieving pregnancy.
CLASS DURATION: Please take into account the following when making your plans to attend a FAF (Family of the Americas) Class – Introductory class is a teaching class that lasts approximately 2.5 hours. Follow up classes are scheduled between you and your instructor within the time for your class and last approximately 45 minutes.
4. Billings Ovulation Method Association (BOMA)
For the Billings Ovulation Method Association Method, observations are made daily of the biomarkers of cervical mucus and vaginal sensations. These observations are then recorded daily by using a Billings Method chart and either stamps or symbols. You will be taught to cross-check and interpret these observations to determine the beginning and end of the fertile phase in the menstrual cycle along with the rules for postponing or achieving pregnancy.
CLASS DURATION: Please take into account the following when making your plans to attend a BOMA (Billings Ovulation Method) Class – Introductory class and second class session are teaching classes that last approximately 2-2.5 hours. Follow up classes are scheduled between you and your instructor within the time for your class and last approximately 45 minutes.
5. Marquette Method (MAR)
The Marquette Method uses an algorithm and urine fertility biomarkers collected at home, to measure hormone levels. The biomarkers can be used with cervical mucus or basal body temperature to confidently determine the woman’s fertile window. The Marquette Method uses Clearblue fertility monitors to measure estrogen and LH levels.
CLASS DURATION: Please take into account the following when making your plans to attend a Marquette Method Class – Introductory class session is a teaching class that last approximately 2-2.5 hours. Follow up classes are scheduled between you and your instructor within the time for your class and last approximately 45 minutes.
6. Boston Cross Check (BCC)
Couples will learn to observe, chart, and interpret 3 biomarkers: cervical fluid, basal body temperature (with either an oral thermometer or Temdrop, a wearable thermometer), and urinary hormone levels (with LH tests, Clearblue Fertility Monitor, and/or Proov PdG tests). Bcc is customizable, so couples can choose the tool combination that work best for them. Couples will use these tools to identify the start and end of fertility. Couples will learn how to apply the Cross Check Rule in order to achieve or postpone pregnancy.
CLASS DURATION: Please take into account the following when making your plans to attend a Boston Cross Check Class – Introductory class, as well as second and third class sessions are teaching classes that last approximately 2-2.5 hours. The last follow up class is scheduled between you and your instructor within the time for your class and lasts approximately 30 minutes.
7. Neofertility (Neo)
The Neofertility method is taught in the course titled Chart your Cycle Engaged (CYCE). This is a 12-week online coaching and implementation program for engaged couples desiring to incorporate Natural Family Planning into their marriage. Developed by a Registered Nurse and National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach, this program is designed with busy engaged couples in mind. You will learn the essentials of cycle charting for family planning along with an introduction to Catholic marriage. You will gain access to the HIPPA-compliant charting app and online course platform for personalized support. The CYCE program is a multifactorial approach utilizing cervical mucus observations, basal body temperature (with TempDrop integration), and urine hormone testing.
CLASS DURATION: This 12 week program includes an introductory class and 3 lives sessions (45 minutes each). Both fiancés or spouses are required to complete the self-paced online course in the time between the sessions. Additional chart reviews are offered weekly.