Podcasts about creighton model

Is hormonal birth control really the best option for women's health? Claire Standridge sits down with Pam Marvin, a Fertility Care Practitioner specializing in the Creighton Model and NaPro Technology, to discuss natural family planning (NFP) and why a woman's cycle is a vital sign of overall health. Pam shares powerful insights on the dangers of hormonal birth control, the benefits of charting cycles, and how restorative reproductive healthcare can offer real solutions to infertility and hormonal imbalances. Discover how NFP empowers women with scientific, faith-based, and holistic knowledge about their fertility—without the harmful and immoral effects of artificial contraception. Plus, learn how husbands can actively support their wives on this journey!   #NaturalFamilyPlanning #CatholicMarriage #CreightonModel #NaProTechnology   Visit redcradio.org or download our RED-C Radio App to access our live radio, listen to all of our podcasts, and find additional information and resources related to our Catholic faith. And if you want to support The RED-C Apostolate and all that we do, please consider making a recurring or one-time donation (https://redcradio.org/donate). You can also subscribe to our email list at https://redcradio.org/subscribe. May God bless you and all your loved ones!

Have you heard of cycle syncing -- the decision to make decisions and lifestyle choices based on where you are in your menstrual cycle? Today's guest, Megan Faller, is the founder of The Aligned Cycle and she joins us to share how connecting with this ancient practice has been so beneficial for her and why she wants to empower others with the same knowledge. My favorite part of this episode? She makes cycle syncing *realistic and accessible!* If you are interested in learning more about what cycle syncing is and how you could begin trying it out for yourself right now, this is the episode for you. NOTE: Sorry about the audio issues on this episode! This episode is appropriate for all audiences. GUEST BIO: Megan Faller is a wife and homeschooling mother of four living in Southern California and the founder of The Aligned Cycle.  In 2010, she began teaching the Creighton Model of fertility awareness and went on to co-found Restore FertilityCare.  Along her health journey began to make adjustments to her own schedule in relation to her hormonal/cycle phase to support her wellness and avoid burnout.  She's now on a mission to help other women rest and work in harmony with their natural rhythms.     SHOW NOTES: The Aligned Cycle with Megan Faller@thealignedcycleInterested in learning about the Creighton Model System? You're in the right place! Register for Creighton Introductory Session: Register here for our next Introductory SessionLooking for ways to implement fertility awareness into your life and faith? Check out out most helpful resources: Substack Newsletter (free)Website Resources (free)Have a question or want to give us feedback? Send us a textSupport the Show.This podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Neither Woven nor its staff, nor any contributor to this podcast, makes any representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use.

"No surgery is better than a bad surgery" -Dr. Teresa Hilgers Looking for a surgeon for PCOS, pelvic pain/endometriosis, and/or infertility and don't know where to start? Understand that not all surgeons have the same training and expertise? Do you need a repeat surgery? Unsure of questions to ask when interviewing surgeons? Have you heard of plastic surgery for the pelvis?! This episode is for you. Mary interviewed one of her best friends, Lisa, who is an experienced nurse and Certified Creighton Practitioner. They shared their years of experience personally and professionally, following clients before they had surgery with a variety of different surgeons and afterwards to assess outcomes. Lisa shared some fascinating and provocative information she learned recently at the Annual FertilityCare Conference from surgeons and researchers to give you all the information you need to make the best decision for yourself. Lisa Morvant is a Certified FertilityCare Practitioner in the Creighton Model system and the responsible practitioner for Little Flower FertilityCare. She has been teaching the Creighton Model System for 5.5 years. Lisa holds a Bachelor's of Science degree in Nursing and has been practicing as a Registered Nurse since 2011. Her nursing settings include adult ER, pediatric and OB/GYN ER, and the recovery room. She has been married to her husband Chris for 12 years. They reside in the Lafayette, LA area. Lisa has a passion for authentic women's healthcare and helping educate and empower women to advocate for themselves and their health. Contact her at lcmorvant@gmail.com. Anti-Adhesion Research: Near Adhesion-Free Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery: Three Distinct Phases of Progress Over 23 Years | Journal of Gynecologic Surgery (liebertpub.com) A video that explains Pelvioplasty: Pelvioplasty – Saint Paul VI Institute (popepaulvi.com) Find Certified Napro surgeons: MEDICAL TREATMENT  WITH NaProTECHNOLOGY - FertilityCare Centers of America - Omaha, NE FAbM Base recommended surgeons: Come Read our External Resources for Fertility Awareness (fabmbase.org)

It's normal to feel nervous before trying something new, and when that new thing is a fertility appreciation method like Creighton Model System, it can feel like a very big deal. How can you be successful with Creighton? What's the key to successful use of this fertility awareness based method? I've thought over my years as a Certified FertilityCare Practitioner teaching the Creighton System to share 4 tips that I see my most successful and confident learners practice. These are not rocket science, but they are effective -- and that's what counts. Enjoy the episode! NOTE: This episode is appropriate for all audiences. Episodes about Creighton Model System: Fertility Method of Choice: CreightonCan I really use Creighton myself??Creighton vs. NaProTechnology: What's the difference?Choosing a Natural Family Planning MethodLove the content? The biggest gift you could give is to click a 5 star review and write why it was so meaningful! Ready to learn the Creighton Model System? Now's the perfect time! You can register for the next upcoming virtual session. Creighton Introductory Session: Register here!Interested in the intersection of fertility and faith? Find more here!Follow us on Instagram: @wovenfertilitySend us a Text Message.Support the Show.This podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Neither Woven nor its staff, nor any contributor to this podcast, makes any representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use.

Dr. Naomi Whittaker is a board-certified OBGYN and a fellowship-trained surgeon who specializes in the Creighton Model FertilityCare System and NaProTechnology, which works cooperatively with a woman's body to treat the underlying cause of gynecologic issues and infertility, such as endometriosis and PCOS. Dr. Naomi is the founder of RRMAcademy.org and an OBGYN fertility surgeon focused on women's restorative reproductive medicine, compassionate healthcare, and education.In this episode, Dr. Naomi and I discuss how NaPro Technology and the Creighton Model differ from conventional gynecological approaches, the benefits of cycle charting, the significant role of progesterone in women's health, common misconceptions within the medical community, insights into surgical interventions for cycle issues, and more. Enjoy the episode!To learn more, visit https://nicolejardim.com/podcasts/revolutionizing-womens-healthcare-with-napro-technology-naomi-whittaker/.Podcast Production Support: Amazing Gains | https://listenerstoclients.comMentioned in this episode:Join the Fix Your Period CollectiveAre you ready to transform your menstrual health? Get started with the Fix Your Period Collective by taking my new and improved period quiz, which will translate your responses into a personalized period dashboard that gives you all the answers and solutions you've ever wanted for your cycle and hormone problems. Get started at https://fixyourperiod.com/quiz/.FYP Collective

Hope began her period at age 12 and, by age 14, was already experiencing extreme menstrual cramps with her period. She went to her OBGYN to seek answers and began a journey of discovery, health, and healing. Today she shares about her experience as a teenager, her timeline and process for diagnosis, and what she's doing now to invest in her reproductive health even as a young woman who is not in a relationship. Fertility awareness for single women is just as important as anyone else. Whether you have painful periods or simply want to know when you ovulate, there are fertility awareness based methods like the Creighton model system available to you! NOTE: This episode is appropriate for all audiences. GUEST BIO: Hope is a young adult discovering the design of her body through charting with the Creighton Model. She has a history of difficult and irregular cycles as well as stage 2 and stage 4 endometriosis. She currently works at an organic, sustainable orchard and enjoys snowboarding in her free time. SHOW NOTES: Interested in learning about the Creighton Model System? You're in the right place! Register for Creighton Introductory Session: Register here for our next Introductory SessionLooking for ways to implement fertility awareness into your life and faith? Check out out most helpful resources: Substack Newsletter (free)Website Resources (free)Have a question or want to give us feedback? Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.This podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Neither Woven nor its staff, nor any contributor to this podcast, makes any representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use.

Her journey through infertility and working with couples using the Creighton Model of NFP

Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”Initially I asked Dr. Teresa Hilgers of the world renowned Saint Paul VI Institute to come on our show to address the effect of contraceptives, especially oral contraceptives, on women's overall health. She did that and much more. It is our hope that you will take the time to listen or watch the interview and share it with friends and family. In addition your Parish Priest will find it helpful when addressing fertility issues with young couples, especially those preparing for marriage or dealing with infertility. I invite you to join the conversation as we address the important topic of natural fertility care with Dr. Teresa Hilgers and explore the revolutionary innovations of the St. Paul VI Institute. Learn firsthand about the creation and global impact of the Creighton Model and NaPro Technology, developed by her father, Dr. Thomas Hilgers, along with his dedicated team. Discover how these groundbreaking methods support women in achieving or delaying pregnancy, while addressing a variety of gynecological issues in harmony with their natural cycles.Dr. Teresa Hilgers also shares her expert insights on the ethical and medical implications of using birth control pills for health purposes beyond contraception. We discuss the significant side effects and the failure of these pills to address underlying health issues, offering an alternative perspective grounded in ethical medicine and aligned with the Catholic Church's teachings. You'll also gain a deeper understanding of natural family planning as a viable and effective alternative for delaying pregnancy and the value of understanding fertility cycles as a couple.Explore the critical importance of fertility education, the risks and benefits of birth control, and the need for proactive diagnosis of conditions like endometriosis. Dr. Teresa provides valuable resources for finding NaPro doctors and outlines the global reach of their practice. Embrace the spirit of curiosity and questioning in science as we conclude with an enlightening discussion on the essence of scientific inquiry and the importance of humility in the medical field. This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone seeking ethical and effective reproductive health solutions.In closing a reminder that this show is available on any podcast or music app or the video podcast accessed on X or our website: JP2Renew.orgAdditional resources: Dr. Thomas Hilgers joins Jack, some past episodes: #179 Woman's Reproductive Health with Dr. Thomas Hilgers, Director of the Saint Paul VI Institute#101: “Good News” in Women's Reproductive Health, Dr. Hilgers is with us!!Fertility Care.orgSaint Paul VI Institute   (Please support the Institutes research and training!) Saint John Paul the Great Society of Procreative Surgeons Support the Show.

Pam Marvin and guest Shannon Allgeyer dive deep into the science of Natural Family Planning (NFP), fertility awareness, and the alternatives to contraceptives through a candid and illuminating dialogue. Discover the intricacies of various NFP methods, including the Creighton Model, Marquette Method, and Symptothermal, and hear firsthand the transformative experiences of individuals who have embraced NFP in their lives. Pam and Shannon, both fervent advocates for NFP, share their expertise and personal stories to shed light on the profound impact NFP can have on understanding fertility, enhancing marital relationships, and aligning with one's faith and values. They tackle common misconceptions and fears about NFP, offering hope and guidance for those considering this path. Whether you're curious about NFP, seeking alternatives to contraception, or seeking to open your heart even more to the possibility of life, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and testimonies. Learn about the science behind NFP, the role of faith in family planning, and how embracing NFP can lead to a more informed, joyful, and faith-filled approach to fertility and marriage. For anyone passionate about faith, religion, Christianity, local ministries, and supporting faith-based organizations, this episode not only educates but also inspires. Discover how NFP aligns with Catholic values, the benefits of living a contraceptive-free life, and the beautiful stories of hope and trust in God's plan for families. Don't miss this compelling conversation on RED-C Roundup, where faith, fertility, and family planning converge in a powerful testament to the beauty of God's design for human fertility.   Check out our YouTube page to see great RED-C Apostolate content!   Visit redcradio.org or download our RED-C Radio App to access our live radio, listen to all of our podcasts, and find additional information and resources related to our Catholic faith. And if you want to support The RED-C Apostolate and all that we do, please consider making a recurring or one-time donation (https://redcradio.org/donate). You can also subscribe to our email list at https://redcradio.org/subscribe. May God bless you and all your loved ones!

Ms. Carrie Huebner, CFCP, PA-C joins discusses alternative and integrative therapy for difficult to treat conditions such as autoimmune disease, chronic pain, and infertility. Carrie Huebner, CFCP, PA-C is a PA, wife, and mother of five miracle babies. Carrie attended the University of Florida obtaining her Bachelor of Health Science and Master of Physical Therapy degree. After several years of struggling with infertility, Carrie and her husband found the help they needed through the Creighton Model and NaProTECHNOLOGY. Inspired by her own infertility journey and improved health and wellness with a more natural approach to medicine, she went on to attend PA school at Emory School of Medicine, graduating with highest honors. While at Emory she was awarded the Georgia Physician Assistant Association Scholarship and was inducted into the Pi Alpha Honor Society. Additionally, she obtained her Masters in Integrative Medicine at George Washington University. Carrie is also a certified FertilityCare Practitioner for the Creighton Model System and a NaProTECHNOLOGY medical consultant. Drawn to evangelization and education, Carrie and her husband provide presentations as well as a personal witness to groups of all ages on marriage and family, fertility awareness/NFP, and infertility. She currently works as an orthopedic surgical PA in Georgia and is excited to be offering family, integrative, and restorative reproductive medicine through Santa Casa Center. [Santa Casa Center – Visit the Website] • [Santa Casa Center – Schedule an Appointment]  

Happy Hour:  Fr. Tim Grumbach joins Trending with Timmerie discussing how AI disrupts academia. (1:28) A Catholic response to AI (18:13) Why we lack friendships and what to do about it.  (32:54)  Alternatives to the pill for heavy cramps and lightheadedness? (42:07) Should a woman have an abortion if her life is at risk? (47:31)   Resources mentioned :    Episode breaking down Elon Musk's interview about AI https://relevantradio.com/2023/04/ai-elon-musks-warning-concern/    Episode: irregular periods How  to  treat intense cramps, menopause, sleeplessness, and more https://relevantradio.com/2023/03/female-hacks-irregular-periods-birth-control-motherhood/    To find a Creighton Model teacher: https://www.fertilitycare.org/   Fertility/infertility specialist – NaPro Physicians https://fertilitycare.org/find-a-mc   Telehealth NaPro Physicians https://naturalwomanhood.org/find-a-doctor/telehealth/   OB/GYN Dr. John Bruchalski https://relevantradio.com/2022/10/abortion-save-mom-or-save-baby/

Dr. Susan Caldwell discusses the ability to have children in your late 40's and alternatives to IVF   How to Get Pregnant Episode: https://relevantradio.com/2022/09/how-to-get-pregnant-shia-lebeouf-becomes-catholic-2/   Fertility/infertility specialist – NaPro Physicians https://fertilitycare.org/find-a-mc   Proov, an At Home Fertility Test: https://proovtest.com/   To find a Creighton Model teacher: https://www.fertilitycare.org/   Dr. Susan Caldwell sharing about having kids from IVF, but wouldn't recommend it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otDOF3ktX8Q   Fertility/infertility specialist – NaPro Physicians https://fertilitycare.org/find-a-mc   Telehealth NaPro Physicians https://naturalwomanhood.org/find-a-doctor/telehealth/   Dr. Susan Caldwell discusses the problem with being dependent on contraception https://relevantradio.com/2021/12/contraception-dependent-culture/

Medical Dr. Susan Caldwell – fertility specialist– joins Trending with Timmerie discussing infertility solutions and the problems with Intrauterine insemination (IUI). (1:42) Dr. Caldwell discusses the ability to have children in your late 40's and alternatives to IVF. (24:55)  Oxford study confirms link between birth control and breast cancer.  Why?  And why are feminist telling women to take it anyway? (39:44) Resources mentioned :    Doum Vitae – Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith  https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_con_cfaith_doc_19870222_respect-for-human-life_en.html    How to Get Pregnant Episode: https://relevantradio.com/2022/09/how-to-get-pregnant-shia-lebeouf-becomes-catholic-2/   Fertility/infertility specialist – NaPro Physicians https://fertilitycare.org/find-a-mc   Proov, an At Home Fertility Test: https://proovtest.com/   To find a Creighton Model teacher: https://www.fertilitycare.org/   Dr. Susan Caldwell sharing about having kids from IVF, but wouldn't recommend it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otDOF3ktX8Q   Fertility/infertility specialist – NaPro Physicians https://fertilitycare.org/find-a-mc   Telehealth NaPro Physicians https://naturalwomanhood.org/find-a-doctor/telehealth/ Dr. Susan Caldwell discusses the problem with being dependent on contraception https://relevantradio.com/2021/12/contraception-dependent-culture/

Hey, As you might know we're in the middle of the Wellness & Weight Loss Reboot Summit this week.So, I wanted to talk about the Pros and Cons of Low-Calorie Eating, it isn't for everybody, find out why. You can find more information HERE. But I was more than happy to cut my discussion short to invite to the show Dr. Jessica Whelan, ND. We had a very intimate, honest and needed conversation around her experiences around her hormones and menstrual cycle as a younger woman and how it shaped her career. She's an expert on the Creighton Model FertilityCare™ and she will be speaking tomorrow at the Wellness & Weight Loss Reboot Summit, register now, HERE and join in to hear Dr. Jessica share more insights and cutting-edge information at the summit. See you there! Can't make the summit LIVE, no worries, you'll get all the replays, but you have to register now! Thanks for listening, Dr. Susan Plank --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dr-plank/message

This conversation with Holly Baril is fascinating! We chat about her experience using and teaching the Creighton Model for over 20 years. Sneak peak: She would love to throw the chart out the window because charting is hard work and she's been doing it for what feels like forever, but she won't give it up because of the health benefits and knowledge of her body!Connect with Holly on InstagramI offer NFP/FA Mindset coaching and NFP Method Match coaching! Wondering what that is? Check out episode 62 or book a free 10 minute discovery call.If you are interested in booking a coaching session with me, click here for...

The cervical mucus test is keeping track of how your cervical mucus varies throughout your menstrual cycle. This week on the Curious women podcast, we are having an amazing guest who is the CEO of KEGG; a medical-grade fertility device that gives you personalized fertility tracking through the cervical fluid. Kristina joins us today to dive into the KEGG device and how it helps women to have a close eye on being fertile and other concerns regarding cervical mucus. Kristina was a person who travels a lot. Due to the stress and traveling, her cycle was not regular, and found out tracking vaginal fluid might help but there was no device to do that. She completed her training on the Creighton Model and the Sympto-Thermal Method of fertility awareness and after some time identified that those methods are not easy to learn. She spent 7+ years working on eBay and Amazon and decided to create KEGG. Kristina currently lives in San Francisco, California, the United States with her husband. In this episode we cover, [08.49] Background - Starting the conversation, Kristina dives into her story, how she got into the field and how KEGG started. [19.39] The device – Kristina shares KEGG helps you to get the data of your vagina without going to a doctor. [21.17] Being empowered – Kristina dives into what the device can currently offer for any woman who uses it like, the possibility of having infections, PCOS, conceiving, and more before going to the doctor. [23.36] Tracking – Kristina dives into the methods by which women can track cervical fluid and how difficult it is to track it for women who have irregular periods. [32.21] Birth control – We dive into how women are used to getting birth control which doesn't fix problems because it only conceals the problem. [35.26] What is KEGG – Kristina dives into what KEGG is, how it works, what benefits women can get from it, and how it served women including herself. [41.27] Pelvic floor – Pelvic floor holds the weight of everything when you are pregnant. Kristina shares how women get problems in the pelvic floor after childbirth and how to avoid that. [46.09] Manual cervix fluid tracking – Kristina shares how to both track manual cervix fluid and KEGG tracking and how it helps fertilization. [56.09] Processing with knowledge - Kristina dives into how women should know about things like egg quality, and timing to conceive because most women get frustrated after the first four months due to the lack of knowledge. Resources Connect with Kristina https://kegg.tech/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinacahojova/ https://twitter.com/kristincahojova?lang=en https://www.ease.com/ Chart your fertility https://www.instagram.com/fertilitycharting/?hl=en Period Guru https://mobile.twitter.com/jennalongoria https://www.instagram.com/jennalongoriahealth/?hl=en Fix Your Period By Nicole Jardim https://books.google.lk/books/about/Fix_Your_Period.html?id=xs-lDwAAQBAJ&redir_esc=y --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/curious-women/support

Enjoy this next episode with the lovely Hannah Cox who is passionate about young women learning the gift of their bodies. Hanna is a fertility awareness instructor trained in Creighton Model, FEMM and teenFEMM. After realizing how her own body illiteracy as a teen had affected her self esteem and decisions and after working with so many women who had struggled with cycle and hormone issues since their youth, she became determined to improve how we teach our daughters about their bodies and fertility. She is passionate about teaching young girls the beauty of their female bodies and the importance of caring for them. She offers an online workshop and course for moms and daughters to learn together about periods, puberty and cycle charting. Hanna lives in Nebraska with her husband and 5 children. To get to know Hannah's work, go to cloakofroses.com, and learn about her Body Smart for Girls Literacy program! For girls 8 and up, you and your daughter can about her amazing body, how it's changing and why she should love her period! Opinions, statements, and beliefs of our interviewees are not necessarily a reflection of the HG podcast's beliefs and opinions as a whole. Medical disclaimer: The information presented in The Hormone Genius Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for actual medical or mental health advice from a doctor, psychologist, or any other medical or mental health professional.

What is NFP? Learn the history, basics and some important facts about this effective, scientific and beautiful method.  Anna Shaffer is a Creighton Model instructor who is passionate about women's health.  She works with couples to teach them about a woman's fertility including lessons on biology, sexuality, emotional intimacy and overall wholeness.  We barely scratched the surface and Anna will be back soon, I hope! Anna is taking new clients and can be reached at: annagrace.shaffer@gmail.com.

Welcome to the first episode of the Method Conversation series! You'll hear from trained instructors who represent a variety of organizations that provide scientifically-proven, methodologically-sound, and Catholic Church-approved fertility awareness based method (FABM) instruction that are well-respected in the fertility awareness and medical community. Remember, don't work with an instructor who creates their own rules & methods! Work with trained experts. In this episode, Bridget sits down with Melissa Tablada, who is a trained Creighton Fertility Care Practitioner who teaches women and couples how to chart. She'll get into the history of the Creighton Model, how it works, effectiveness rates what it looks like to work with an instructor, how to find an instructor, and important aspects to consider before picking a method and instructor. Don't miss this series and this helpful conversation! Shownotes: Creighton Model: https://creightonmodel.com/ NaPro Technology: https://naprotechnology.com/ Melissa's Website: https://www.melissagracetablada.com/ Melissa's Instagram: https://instagram.com/melissagracetablada Melissa's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/melissatablada Melissa Tablada is now offering a bundled package of one year worth of Creighton Fertility Care Support PLUS six coaching sessions based on your season of life. For couples this will entail martial coaching & for single women the sessions will focus on life coaching. This new service provides the opportunity for clients to receive support in a more complete way, addressing the whole person rather than just one part. You'll have the chance to customize your sessions based on your personal and unique goals. Please email melissagracetablada@gmail.com for more information & to sign up! Interviewee Bio: Melissa Tablada is a Catholic wife & mama living in Miami, Florida. She works as a Creighton Fertility Care Practitioner teaching women and couples to chart their cycles to achieve or avoid pregnancy, or manage their reproductive health. She is also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a Life and Relationship Coach. Melissa is passionate about supporting women in becoming healthy and whole in mind, body and soul!

In this episode we talk to Kari Beadner, CFCP, CBD and owner of Ashwood Fertility Care Center. We talk about her journey to becoming what she calls a wholistic women's health advocate. Her passion for women is evident in the work she does as a birth doula, bereavement doula, and FertilityCare Practitioner. We talk in depth about fertility awareness methods more specifically the Creighton Model of cycle charting, Napro Technology and the work she does through her business. This episode is a great way to reclaim power over our cycles and give hope to women who have struggled with painful periods, heavy or irregular cycles, infertility, recurrent miscarriages and so much more. If you are a woman, raising women, this episode is for you! Karla and I were left asking why we weren't taught about this sooner, but are so happy that we know now. Kari is doing such important work with not only reaching women that are of child-bearing age, but also those who are younger and helping us all be proud of our cycles instead of seeing them as a woe of womanhood. Please follow Kari on social media: @karibeadner, @ashwoodfertilitycare and check out her website for free resources and to get in touch with a FertilityCare Practitioner (http://www.ashwoodfertilitycare.com)

Kate Smith talks with us about her fertility journey using the Creighton Model and Natural Procreative Technology Technology to identify and address her endometriosis and assist in her journey to conception.Charleston Clinic:Summerville Women's Care- Dr. Nancy StroudIndiana Clinic:Fertility and Midwifery Care Center in Fort Wayne, IN - Dr. Jillian StallingQuestions for Kate? Email her at kathrynosimmons@gmail.com

Kate Smith talks with us about her fertility journey using the Creighton Model and Natural Procreative Technology Technology to identify and address her endometriosis and assist in her journey to conception.Charleston Clinic:Summerville Women's Care- Dr. Nancy StroudIndiana Clinic:Fertility and Midwifery Care Center in Fort Wayne, IN - Dr. Jillian StallingQuestions for Kate? Email her at kathrynosimmons@gmail.com

There are many avenues to understand your fertility. We support all forms of fertility awareness! BUT - woven natural fertility care uses the Creighton Method for very specific reasons. Today's episode introduces the Creighton Model, the medical component (for restorative health & wellness), and why this method may be the perfect place for you to get started in understanding your fertility. This episode is appropriate for all ages. If you're interested in learning Creighton, the best way to get started is by attending an Introductory Session. To join this month's session, register at wovenfertility.com/join-us. We'd love to see you there! You can also read a transcript of this episode at wovenfertility.com/show-transcripts. If you found this helpful or informative, we hope you'll share it with a friend! You can do that by sharing through your podcast platform or this link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1901945/9881696

Join Creighton Model Fertility Care Practitioner Cathryn Marshall RN as she shares the details on the Creighton Model and Napro Technology - an all-natural, scientifically based method for fertility management.

This is episode one in a series on finding the right method for you. We are discussing Mucus-Only methods of fertility awareness. We have Flenje Rose Oaferina who teaches Billings Ovulation Method and we have Lisa Morvant who is a Creighton Model Instructor. Want to learn more about the methods we talked about?Billings Ovulation Method: https://www.boma-usa.org/Creighton Model FertilityCare: https://fertilitycare.org/NaPro Technology: https://fertilitycare.org/Feel free to reach out to the instructors we talked to via the Instagram links above!Questions, comments, suggestions about the podcast?https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com

We are joined by Julie Linder a nurse and instructor in the Creighton Model to discuss the benefits of charting before you get married as well as the differences in charting before you get married vs. after you're married!Reach out to us:https://www.instagram.com/chartingtowardintimacy/chartingtowardintimacy@gmail.com

Marguerite Duane, MD, MHA is a board-certified family physician and adjunct associate professor at Georgetown University. She is co-founder and executive director of FACTS, the Fertility Appreciation Collaborative to Teach the Science. She is trained as a Creighton Model, FEMM and NeoFertility medical consultant as well as a TeenSTAR educator. She also works with Modern Mobile Medicine, a direct primary care house calls-based medical practice that serves patients of all ages in the DC area. Dr. Duane received her medical degree with recognition in primary care from the State University of New York at Stony Brook and completed her family medicine residency at Lancaster General Hospital in Lancaster, PA. She has previously served on the boards of both the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and the Family Medicine Education Consortium (FMEC). Dr. Duane balances her career as a teacher and Family Physician, with her role as a mother and wife. Today’s episode is sponsored by the Fertility Awareness Mastery LIVE 8 week group coaching program!  We start on May 4th! Will you be joining us? Click here to register now! Topics discussed in today's episode: Why is Dr. Duane as passionate now about FAM than when she discovered it years ago Dr. Duane’s thoughts on how FAM is the only birth control method with no side effects The philosophy of allopathic medicine How doctors are trained about FAM and what women can expect when going to their female doctor The effectiveness of Fertility Awareness Methods The different methods of Fertility Awareness Dr. Duane’s thoughts on the challenges for women concerned with the effectiveness How to use the methods correctly What is most commonly quoted when it comes to FAM Connect with Dr. Marguerite Duane: You can connect with Lisa on Facebook, Twitter, and on her website. Resources mentioned: Facts About Fertility Conference Fertility Awareness Mastery Mentorship (FAMM) Class of 2021 The Fifth Vital Sign: Master Your Cycles & Optimize Your Fertility (Book) | Lisa Hendrickson-Jack Fertility Awareness Mastery Charting Workbook Fertility Awareness Mastery Online Self-Study Program Related podcasts & blog posts: FFP 285 | Finding a Medical Doctor Who Will Support You | Dr. Nathan Riley, MD [On-Air Client Session] FFP 253 | Does Fertility Awareness Really Work? | Sarrah & Lisa FFP 250 | The Top 5 Myths About Fertility Awareness  | Lisa | Fertility Friday FFP 244 | The Truth About Using FAM for Birth Control | Lisa | Fertility Friday FFP 210 | The Complete Guide to Fertility Awareness | Jane Knight FFP 200 | Using Fertility Awareness For Birth Control | Natural Birth Control | Lisa | Fertility Friday FFP 194 | How Effective Are Fertility Awareness-Based Methods…Really? | Dr. Marguerite Duane, MD FFP 158 | How Effective is Fertility Awareness? | The Marquette Method | Dr. Mary Lee Barron, PhD [On-Air Client Session] FFP 132 | Fertility Awareness Reality Series | Using FAM for Birth Control Successfully & Confidently | Emily & Lisa FFP 123 | Fertility Awareness Training for Physicians & Health Professionals | What Your Doctor Needs to Know About Fertility Awareness | Dr. Marguerite Duane Join the community! Find us in the Fertility Friday Facebook Group. Subscribe to the Fertility Friday Podcast in Apple Podcasts! Music Credit: Intro/Outro music Produced by J-Gantic A Special Thank You to Our Show Sponsors: Fertility Friday | Fertility Awareness Programs This episode is sponsored by my Fertility Awareness Programs! Master Fertility Awareness and take a deep dive into your cycles and how they relate to your overall health! Click here to apply now! The Fertility Awareness Charting Workbook This episode is sponsored by my new book the Fertility Awareness Mastery Charting. Click here to buy now.

Jordan and Napoli Beachnau join Fr. Patrick and Emily to discuss marriage as a vocation, a sacrament, and a way to live the Gospel. Show notes: (0:59) Emily and Fr. Patrick catch up and discuss the hope that comes with the first signs of spring, the way individuals are coming back to Mass with the end of the general dispensation, and the graces found in this Lenten season. (5:08) Fr. Patrick introduces this episode’s guests, Jordan and Napoli Beachnau and shares a bit about their hobbies and the experience they shared walking the Camino de Santiago in 2018. (8:25) Jordan shares the story of his conversion to Catholicism and the role his sister played in bringing him into the Church. He talks about his experience discerning the priesthood and how that was changed by a powerful revelation from Mary at Lourdes. (14:15) Napoli shares her testimony of her Catholic upbringing from her Baghdad-born parents and the constant tugging the Lord has had on her heart — she just didn’t know it was him! She talks about encountering Jesus through love of other people and the gentleness the Lord has shown her. (19:09) Jordan reflects on the night before their wedding, when he heard Jesus calling them to more than just what an earthly marriage looks like. He discusses the discernment he and Napoli did before their ceremony and the way they live out their marriage as a grace-filled sacrament together. (24:47) Napoli shares her experience with the Camino trip in 2018, and how the Lord was revealing hurt on her heart that was preventing her from drawing fully into him and the Camino was a time to work through that emotional strife. She shares the foundation that this has laid for her and Jordan’s marriage and how it inspires them to turn to the Lord with any difficulty. (29:01) Jordan talks more about the moments after Mary’s revelation to him at Lourdes and how it changed his relationship with Napoli almost instantly. The two also discuss how they find strength in times of difficulty in their relationships with each other or with Christ, and the grace that they find in the moments when they’re closest to Jesus. (37:28) Napoli talks about her experience as a Creighton practitioner intern and how it has related to their vocation of becoming parents. She discusses fertility and reproductive issues she has experienced, the effect it had on their marriage, and the miracle of the child they’re now expecting. (49:39) Jordan and Napoli share advice they would give to newlyweds living through the pandemic and quarantine together, and Fr. Patrick closes with a blessing. Links from this episode: Camino de Santiago (http://santiago-compostela.net/) Young Catholic Professionals Detroit (https://www.ycpdetroit.org/cpages/home) Encounter Ministries (https://encounterministries.us/) St. Paul Street Evangelization (https://streetevangelization.com/) NFP Creighton Model (https://info.aod.org/hc/en-us/articles/360039273233-Creighton-Model)

Jordan and Napoli Beachnau join Fr. Patrick and Emily to discuss marriage as a vocation, a sacrament, and a way to live the Gospel. Show notes: (0:59) Emily and Fr. Patrick catch up and discuss the hope that comes with the first signs of spring, the way individuals are coming back to Mass with the end of the general dispensation, and the graces found in this Lenten season. (5:08) Fr. Patrick introduces this episode’s guests, Jordan and Napoli Beachnau and shares a bit about their hobbies and the experience they shared walking the Camino de Santiago in 2018. (8:25) Jordan shares the story of his conversion to Catholicism and the role his sister played in bringing him into the Church. He talks about his experience discerning the priesthood and how that was changed by a powerful revelation from Mary at Lourdes. (14:15) Napoli shares her testimony of her Catholic upbringing from her Baghdad-born parents and the constant tugging the Lord has had on her heart — she just didn’t know it was him! She talks about encountering Jesus through love of other people and the gentleness the Lord has shown her. (19:09) Jordan reflects on the night before their wedding, when he heard Jesus calling them to more than just what an earthly marriage looks like. He discusses the discernment he and Napoli did before their ceremony and the way they live out their marriage as a grace-filled sacrament together. (24:47) Napoli shares her experience with the Camino trip in 2018, and how the Lord was revealing hurt on her heart that was preventing her from drawing fully into him and the Camino was a time to work through that emotional strife. She shares the foundation that this has laid for her and Jordan’s marriage and how it inspires them to turn to the Lord with any difficulty. (29:01) Jordan talks more about the moments after Mary’s revelation to him at Lourdes and how it changed his relationship with Napoli almost instantly. The two also discuss how they find strength in times of difficulty in their relationships with each other or with Christ, and the grace that they find in the moments when they’re closest to Jesus. (37:28) Napoli talks about her experience as a Creighton practitioner intern and how it has related to their vocation of becoming parents. She discusses fertility and reproductive issues she has experienced, the effect it had on their marriage, and the miracle of the child they’re now expecting. (49:39) Jordan and Napoli share advice they would give to newlyweds living through the pandemic and quarantine together, and Fr. Patrick closes with a blessing. Links from this episode: Camino de Santiago (http://santiago-compostela.net/) Young Catholic Professionals Detroit (https://www.ycpdetroit.org/cpages/home) Encounter Ministries (https://encounterministries.us/) St. Paul Street Evangelization (https://streetevangelization.com/) NFP Creighton Model (https://info.aod.org/hc/en-us/articles/360039273233-Creighton-Model)

Dr. Brian Gosser talks about Money, Sex and Power. He is an OB/GYN doctor and Creighton Model practitioner in the St Louis, MO area. My wife and I have two daughters that wouldn't be here without Dr Brian and The Creighton Model. Thank you so much Brian! Do you have unhealthy beliefs about money? What is something powerful you can do with money? How does money give you a false sense of security? Challenge: Take a look at your look at your bank and credit card statements for the last month. Does how you spend money match up to you what you say are your priorities?    

Do you listen to The Patrick Coffin Show every week? We publish two videos each week on our YouTube channel. Subscribe here: YouTube. Our social media platforms have been demonetized. Our only means of generating income from our show is the support of our listeners. This is how you can help: Donate here: PCM One-time donation Join our subscription program for as low as $14.95 or $120/yr here: Coffin Nation.   _____________________________  .  __________________________________ The January 1973 Supreme Court decision Roe v Wade relied on poor scholarship, extraordinary judicial bias, and fake and deceptive science. Medical pioneer and co-developer of the Creighton Model of Natural Family Planning and NaProtechnology, Dr. Tom Hilgers knows what he's talking about when he uncovers the problem hiding in plain sight. It turns out we actually do know when each human life begins and the scientific reasons why.  Read the rest on our website here.

Brenda talks to Megan Kreft about Family Planning The post Morning Blend Guest: Megan Kreft, Creighton Model appeared first on Mater Dei Radio.

As women entrepreneurs, we need to advocate for our health just much as we advocate for our success. Today's episode is a special episode as you get to hear from your host, Brandie Thomas and special guest, Jessica Murphy. They discuss their health journeys as it pertains to women's health and infertility. You'll hear them share about their experiences with the Creighton Model tracking system and NaPro technology. Every women needs to listen to this episode!

“When women learn to chart these observable external signs or symptoms that help them understand what's happening internally with their hormones, it is so empowering, and we really should be about empowering our patients with this information. I mean, that's why we encourage our patients to track with they're their eating, or patients with diabetes to monitor their blood sugar so that they can use that information to to make healthier choices to better improve their overall health and well-being.  Fertility awareness based methods are such an incredibly effective tool to educate and empower women, and honestly, engage men back in the conversation of family planning.” - Dr. Marguerite Duane   Dr. Marguerite Duane is a board-certified family physician and co-founder and Executive Director of FACTS, the Fertility Appreciation Collaborative to Teach the Science.  She serves as an Adjunct Associate Professor at Georgetown University, where she directs an introductory course on natural or fertility awareness based methods of family planning. She is a practicing direct primary care physician and she has served on the board of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and the Family Medicine Education Consortium (FMEC). After receiving a Bachelor of Science with Honors and a Master of Health Administration from Cornell University, she earned her medical degree from the State University of New York at Stony Brook and completed her family medicine residency at Lancaster General Hospital. During her residency, she was surprised to hear her senior resident explain to a postpartum patient that there is a way women can learn to manage their fertility without any medical side effects, such as those that occur from hormonal birth control.  She wondered how it was possible this topic hadn't been covered in her medical training. This insight planted the seed that changed the trajectory of her career. Dr. Duane began to focus on learning more about these methods, for her own personal health as well as that of her patients.  She went on to complete training in the Creighton Model of natural family planning and has since made it her passion to educate other healthcare providers and patients. After recently completing the FACTS course for medical students and residents myself, I was excited to have the opportunity to chat more with Dr. Duane about the basics of the female cycle, the efficacy of natural family planning, and the science behind fertility awareness based methods. *Dr. Duane's bio adapted from the FACTS website.   In this episode we discuss: How Dr. Duane became interested in fertility awareness based methods How FACTS came to be The need to educate doctors about FABMs The benefits of being in tune with your cycle The efficacy of this method and the best way to get started The basics of the female cycle, and what women can observe throughout their cycle How following your cycle can give insights to your health How FABMs can help explain underlying reasons for infertility Where to look for a practitioner and how to get started Factors to consider when choosing the right method for yourself Preferred apps and what to look for when selecting an app to use The value of using FABMs to help with underlying medical conditions Dr. Duane's experience with Teen STAR and the benefits of learning these methods from an early age Three things that Dr. Duane does on a regular basis that have the biggest positive impact on her health One thing she struggles to implement that could have a big impact on her health What a healthy life looks like to Dr. Duane You can follow the Fertility Awareness Collaborative to Teach the Science (FACTS) on Instagram,  Facebook and Twitter. Links: Natural family planning: physicians' knowledge, attitudes, and practice Women's interest in natural family planning Survey of attitudes regarding natural family planning in an urban Hispanic population The Female Cycle as the 5th Vital Sign Webinar Billings Ovulation Method Sympto-Thermal Method Standard Days Method Marquette Model What is charting? The Performance of Fertility Awareness-based Method Apps Marketed to Avoid Pregnancy The Natural Cycles app The Dot app Phendo app for endometriosis FEMM Health app Cycle Pro Go app Chart Neo Fertility app Kindara app Related episodes: Ep 83 - Pelvic Floor Health for Athletes with Julie Wiebe, PT Ep 126b - Nicole Christensen on Coaching Pregnant Athletes If you like this episode, please subscribe to Pursuing Health on iTunes and give it a rating. I'd love to hear your feedback in the comments below and on social media using the hashtag #PursuingHealth. I look forward to bringing you future episodes with inspiring individuals and ideas about health every other Tuesday.   Disclaimer: This podcast is for general information only, and does not provide medical advice. We recommend that you seek assistance from your personal physician for any health conditions or concerns.   This post was originally published on August 3, 2020.

There are many things we wish we knew about NFP before we started! Yolanda joins us in this episode to talk about some of the different methods of NFP and how it would have been so helpful to know that they all existed. We also touch on how some women change to different methods throughout their NFP journey. If you feel like your method isn't working well for you, check out some other methods. The list below is not exhaustive, these are just the methods we spoke the most about in this episode. Symptothermal:https://www.symptopro.org/https://ccli.org/Marquette:https://www.marquette.edu/nursing/natural-family-planning-model.phpBillings Ovulation Method:https://billings.life/en/Creighton Model:https://www.creightonmodel.com/

"Ugh its that time of the month again" is our usual reaction to our periods, but what if coming to understand our fertility cycles as women can not only help us appreciate how our bodies were designed but also help us with our sport training and performance? Join host, Samantha Kelley, as she interviews fertility care specialist Marie DiCecco. Marie was a health education teacher for 35 years, coached college sports, and is a Fertility Care Practitioner teaching the Creighton Model. Her unique knowledge and wit provides us, the athlete, with insights into our menstrual cycles and how they relate to performance, how to track and know our fertility better, how to identify and treat potential problems, the truth about the Pill, and the reality and risks of the female athlete triad. If you are an athlete or know an athlete, you won't want to miss this episode. We guarantee you will be shocked at how cool the female body is, and how much we can learn from it and celebrate it!Are you interested in learning more about YOUR specific cycle?Contact Marie at nfp.dicecco@hotmail.com As always if there is anything you have questions about or need please email us at info@fierceathlete.orgSupport the show (http://fierceathlete.org/donate)

Brenda talks with Dr. Jazrawi and Megan about the Creighton Model of NFP The post Morning Blend Guest: Dr. Grace Jazrawi and Megan Kreft appeared first on Mater Dei Radio.

In today's episode, we are talking about Thyroid Health, Hashimotos and Cycle charting with fertility awareness method and what you need to know to about the method and about how to use your chart as a diagnostic tool for thyroid conditions My amazing guest today is the wonderful Rebecca McEvoy who is a FertilityCare Practitioner who teaches the Creighton Model of fertility awareness. She is passionate about helping couples plan their families naturally and safely and getting women support and answers for reproductive health issues. Looking forward to sharing Rebecca's Charting wisdom with all of you today! Rebecca is a FertilityCare Practitioner who teaches the Creighton Model of fertility awareness. She is passionate about helping couples plan their families naturally and safely and getting women support and answers for reproductive health issues. In this episode: Introduction and Rebecca's personal journey to becoming a FAM instructor Menstrual Cycle as a vital sign Hashimotos and Hypothyroidism and how women are diagnosed Thyroid diagnosis Thyroid Health and charting The Billings Method of Fertility Awareness Based Method (FABM) Creighton Model of FABM BBT and Thyroid Health How long do you have to chart to know if there is an issue Why it's important to learn the method before interpreting Peak Mucus and Estrogen levels Top Myths about charting and how to break through them The downfall of charting apps and Fem Tech Devices Benefits of charting Fertility Awareness Based Method can enrich your relationship Charting as a diagnostic tool What to do when you suspect a thyroid condition with your chart *****For more on thyroid health see HHPE3 with Janet Walker, we touched on what you can do to balance your thyroid by evaluating environmental toxins and making some lifestyle adjustments Connect with Rebecca McEvoy Email: rebeccamcevoy@pm.me Website: www.charbelcentre.com FB page: https://www.facebook.com/charbelfertilitycare IG: https://www.instagram.com/charbelfertilitycare Connect with host: Dr. Antoinette Falco, ND Download your copy of Post-pill Guidebook Website: www.antoinettefalco.com Instagram: @drantoinettefalco Please send all inquiries and suggestions, including topics you'd like to see covered on the podcast to thehormoneheartbeatpodcast@gmail.com If you'd like to be a guest on the show and you think you'd be a good fit, please reach out!

Join Aimee as she speaks to Dr. Melissa Rupp, a Chiropractor in northwest Iowa who has struggled to balance her hormones and painful periods since she was 12 years old. Hear how she changed her diet, went on a thyroid regimen and finally got pregnant after years of infertility and grief. You'll also discover the important roles that the Creighton Model and Natural Procreative Technology played in Melissa's journey to becoming a mother.Melissa also talks about the amazing organization that she belongs to called Guiding Star, that helps thousands of women on the journey to reclaim natural authority of their own bodies and family planning. On this episode:Melissa explains why she believes that the pill is partially responsible for her infertilityWhy the pill was developed and why it could be doing your body more harm than goodThe importance of listening to your body and understanding that it's okay to question something or someone, even your doctor!What endometriosis is including common symptoms to look out forMelissa reveals why she believed she had an issue with her thyroid and the steps she took to reverse some of the issuesMelissa shares the heart-breaking story of getting pregnant despite being told she couldn't ovulate and dealing with the tragic miscarriage that followedHow Creighton Model charting can help enhance your chances of becoming pregnantHarmful toxins found in everyday products and how they can disrupt your hormonesThe steps Melissa took and changes she made to her lifestyle that eventually lead to her becoming pregnant with a healthy baby daughterIf you want to find out more about Melissa and her journey through balancing hormones, removing harmful toxins from her body and having her daughter, you can check out Melissa's inspirational blog that details the entire story.Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please don't forget to leave a rating and let me know your thoughts with a written review.To keep up with this podcast, please subscribe to the show to make sure you never miss an episode! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/aimee-carlson0/message

Join Aimee as she speaks to Dr. Melissa Rupp, a Chiropractor in northwest Iowa who has struggled to balance her hormones and painful periods since she was 12 years old. Hear how she changed her diet, went on a thyroid regimen and finally got pregnant after years of infertility and grief. You’ll also discover the important roles that the Creighton Model and Natural Procreative Technology played in Melissa’s journey to becoming a mother.Melissa also talks about the amazing organization that she belongs to called Guiding Star, that helps thousands of women on the journey to reclaim natural authority of their own bodies and family planning. On this episode:Melissa explains why she believes that the pill is partially responsible for her infertilityWhy the pill was developed and why it could be doing your body more harm than goodThe importance of listening to your body and understanding that it’s okay to question something or someone, even your doctor!What endometriosis is including common symptoms to look out forMelissa reveals why she believed she had an issue with her thyroid and the steps she took to reverse some of the issuesMelissa shares the heart-breaking story of getting pregnant despite being told she couldn’t ovulate and dealing with the tragic miscarriage that followedHow Creighton Model charting can help enhance your chances of becoming pregnantHarmful toxins found in everyday products and how they can disrupt your hormonesThe steps Melissa took and changes she made to her lifestyle that eventually lead to her becoming pregnant with a healthy baby daughterIf you want to find out more about Melissa and her journey through balancing hormones, removing harmful toxins from her body and having her daughter, you can check out Melissa’s inspirational blog that details the entire story.Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please don’t forget to leave a rating and let me know your thoughts with a written review.To keep up with this podcast, please subscribe to the show to make sure you never miss an episode! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Today we're going to get personal again and dive back into our personal infertility story. If you missed Part 1, make sure to go back to Episode #3 so you get the full back story! I hope that those of you going through infertility can relate to many of the emotions and struggles that I talk about in this episode. You are not alone and your story matters!Your host,Malori Mayor, BSN, RN and infertility warriorSHOW NOTESWarriors in the Wait, Part 2 of our story on the blog: https://www.warriorlifewellness.com/napro-infertility-part-2/Creighton Model of fertility chartingNaProTECHNOLOGYSearch the #naprotechnology hashtag on Instagram!Holly Baril, CFCP (my Creighton instructor): https://www.intouchfertility.com/ & InstagramNaPro is individualized, personalized medicinePMS for 3 or more days before your period is not normal!Talked a little bit about NaPro and Tricare military insurance coverage (NaPro diagnostics and treatment is covered by most insurances)Email: restoringfertilitynaturally@gmail.comCalendly link for scheduling podcast guests: https://calendly.com/restoringfertilitynaturally*Disclaimer: The information presented in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not to be used as a substitute for medical advice from your healthcare provider.

DISCLAIMER: Fr. Josh and Dr. Mario Sacasa dive deep into some of these topics including conjugal love and struggles with pornography. You may want to listen first and discern whether or not it is the right time for your child(ren) to listen. Today Fr. Josh answers questions about sexual baggage, feeling guilty about NFP, the morality of pleasure outside the marital act, and dealing with a partner who watches porn. If you have a question, comment, or response for Fr. Josh, email us at askfrjosh@ascensionpress.com. You may hear your question or comment in an upcoming podcast episode! Snippet from the Show “If you’re not already putting practices in place to grow in holiness and find freedom, then you’re not going to get married and all of a sudden have everything get better.” SHOWNOTES Glory Story (1:15) Fr. Josh is celebrating five years of priesthood and spent some time with brother priests to celebrate everyone’s ordination! As they were celebrating, they shared something that pierced Fr. Josh’s heart and almost made him cry. Listener Feedback (5:52) Marital Pleasure (10:54) Other than actual intercourse, is it wrong for married couples to enjoy physical pleasure with each other if they don't intend it to result in intercourse every time? -Maddie Sexual History (15:23) How am I supposed to handle my boyfriend's sexual past, me being a virgin? It feels at times like I've been betrayed even though he didn't know me at the time. I also worry what it would mean for our marriage, not only regarding human insecurities but lost graces. The secular advice is "his past is none of your business" but I feel if we get married it will be my business. -Confused Girlfriend Pornogrogaphy in a Relationship (28:58) How do you deal with porn in a relationship -- by that, I mean, it hurts to get months into a relationship with someone who is quite wonderful, then find out he struggles with a porn problem. But, mortal sins are also not a first date topic. And although I've heard some say you shouldn't date someone who has this problem, I don't find myself able to act on that advice, or even able to find a guy who doesn't struggle with this! On the other hand, it makes a relationship so hard to maintain... when you know your SO is looking at other girls, it makes you feel like your relationship is a lie, or maybe you're not worth very much. It puts distance and mistrust between you, and it doesn't help much to know, logically, that you're valuable, when you feel like you're not. I don't want to tell him never to talk about this with me, because I don't want to pretend it's not happening. But I also don't want to hear about it, because it hurts so much. I don't want to leave because I'll regret it, and as I said... the next guy will probably be dealing with the same thing anyway. I petition St. Jude for intercession because this seems so hopeless. What's a girl -- or guy -- to do? -Anonymous Struggles with NFP (40:51) 1.) My husband and I have been married for a little over 8 years and have 4 beautiful children (7, 5 1/2, 3 1/2, and 16 months), plus a couple more babies in Heaven that I miscarried. My struggle comes with practicing NFP. We have always used the Creighton Model, but I'm a yellow stamper (meaning my cycles aren't always as obvious) and I also have a history of low progesterone (hence the miscarriages) and have had to be on progesterone supplements for my last three pregnancies. That being said, I'm terrified of getting pregnant again. Don't get me wrong... I will be elated if I end up pregnant. I really want another baby. But due to several factors including financial restraints, having an extremely small house, and still having low progesterone where I could end up miscarrying again, my husband and I are currently "trying to avoid". I realize we don't need to have a dozen kids to make it into Heaven (though not there's anything wrong with that), but I feel guilty any time my husband and I want to be intimate and I can't tell if I'm fertile or not. Part of me feels like it’s best for us to avoid right now, but then part of me wonders if that's being closed off to God and not welcoming any children He has planned (because obviously His plans are infinitely better than mine). I just feel this huge amount of guilt and frustration either way. We are working with our NFP coordinator to figure out my cycles, but until then, it's a lot of "Well you could've used those days" (which doesn't help us after the fact), or feeling guilty that I am disappointing my husband for having to abstain so much or worried that my attitude is disappointing God. Besides bearing my cross and continuing to meet with my NFP coordinator, do you have any advice? -Wife and Mother Resources Want to browse the previous resources Fr. Josh has recommended? Go to ascensionpress.com/askfrjosh to select an episode and view the shownotes.

Today Fr. Josh answers questions about how Jesus knew he was God as a child, whether an annulled marriage means the couple was living in a state of sin, and how to ask a girl on a date. If you have a question, comment, or response for Fr. Josh, email us at askfrjosh@ascensionpress.com. You may hear your question or comment in an upcoming podcast episode! Snippet from the Show “Whenever we open up our hands and don’t grasp at our plan, but are open to God’s plan, then we can receive the great gift he has in store for us. The gift he has for other people may not be good for our salvation.” SHOWNOTES Glory Story (1:01) Fr. Josh shares a story about the power of intercessory prayer. Listener Feedback (3:38) How did the Child Jesus Know he was God? Or Hypostatic Union (10:36) Hi Fr. Josh! My name is Noah from Toronto, Canada and I love listening to your podcast! I have a quick question for you. As Jesus was growing up as a child, how did he know that he was the Son of God? I understand he was preaching in the synagogues at a very young age, but how did he truly and faithfully know that he was the anointed Son of God? Also could he have been skeptical or question that he was during his discernment. Thank you so much and may God continue to bless you in your ministry. -Noah Annulled Marriages (14:47) I have gone through annulment proceedings and the annulment was finalized a few years ago. I really don’t know what to think about the time that I lived in what was a now unrecognized/annulled marriage—I discussed it briefly with a canon lawyer during confession BUT was the time in a marriage (that is now annulled) really time living in a state of sin? It seems like it would be but I don’t know how to seek penance on it or if I should because it seems like a confusing question to me. I’m not really sure if I should seek reconciliation for it or if I need to or what… -Chris Asking a Girl on a Date (22:19) Hello Fr. Josh, First of all thanks for your great podcast, I listen to the episodes in the train and it is a wonderful way to start the day! I have a question about dating. There's a girl at my church whom I quite like. She seems very serious in her faith and after talking to her on a few occasions I think she may like me too. Now, I have heard many times that ambiguity isn't a good thing and that the best thing to do is to clearly ask a girl on a date if you're interested in her. I think that's excellent advice and so I was planning to do just that. However, I'm not sure about how well one should know a girl before asking her on a date? Also, I may be wrong but I feel like a date is the way forward because "normal" chat isn't going to help much with getting to know the important things that would tell me whether I can potentially look for a spouse in her. Would you have some advice about how to make normal conversation useful at the "before asking someone on a date" stage? Are there red flags or things to look for, etc.? Looking forward to your answer. Keep up the good work and God bless. -Anonymous Universal Points (25:25) (Please note that these are brief summaries of the answers Fr. Josh provides in the podcast and are intended to help you remember the advice given on the show.) Hypostatic Union - Yes! Check out the CCC and St. Thomas Aquinas’ writings. Annulled Marriages - It depends on the circumstances. Asking a Girl on a Date - Virtue says that the man will take on the risk of being rejected. Resources Want to browse the previous resources Fr. Josh has recommended? Go to ascensionpress.com/askfrjosh to select an episode and view the shownotes. Broken and Blessed (https://shop.ascensionpress.com/products/broken-and-blessed-an-invitation-to-my-generation) book by Fr. Josh Johnson I Will Follow Priesthood Video (video at bottom of this page) (https://ascensionpress.com/collections/altaration-the-mystery-of-the-mass-revealed) NaPro Technology (https://www.naprotechnology.com/) Creighton Model (https://www.creightonmodel.com/teacherlocation.htm) Will Regan songs - Climb (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLPb7bfT2rg) and Nothing I Hold On To (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Fryb0Uqo4s) CCC 471-475 - Apollinarius of Laodicaea asserted that in Christ the divine Word had replaced the soul or spirit. Against this error the Church confessed that the eternal Son also assumed a rational, human soul. This human soul that the Son of God assumed is endowed with a true human knowledge. As such, this knowledge could not in itself be unlimited: it was exercised in the historical conditions of his existence in space and time. This is why the Son of God could, when he became man, "increase in wisdom and in stature, and in favor with God and man", and would even have to inquire for himself about what one in the human condition can learn only from experience. This corresponded to the reality of his voluntary emptying of himself, taking "the form of a slave". But at the same time, this truly human knowledge of God's Son expressed the divine life of his person. "The human nature of God's Son, not by itself but by its union with the Word, knew and showed forth in itself everything that pertains to God." Such is first of all the case with the intimate and immediate knowledge that the Son of God made man has of his Father. The Son in his human knowledge also showed the divine penetration he had into the secret thoughts of human hearts. By its union to the divine wisdom in the person of the Word incarnate, Christ enjoyed in his human knowledge the fullness of understanding of the eternal plans he had come to reveal. What he admitted to not knowing in this area, he elsewhere declared himself not sent to reveal. Similarly, at the sixth ecumenical council, Constantinople III in 681, the Church confessed that Christ possesses two wills and two natural operations, divine and human. They are not opposed to each other, but cooperate in such a way that the Word made flesh willed humanly in obedience to his Father all that he had decided divinely with the Father and the Holy Spirit for our salvation. Christ's human will "does not resist or oppose but rather submits to his divine and almighty will." CCC 478 - Jesus knew and loved us each and all during his life, his agony and his Passion, and gave himself up for each one of us: "The Son of God. . . loved me and gave himself for me." He has loved us all with a human heart. For this reason, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, pierced by our sins and for our salvation, "is quite rightly considered the chief sign and symbol of that. . . love with which the divine Redeemer continually loves the eternal Father and all human beings" without exception.

National Suicide For the first time in American history there are more jobs than people to fill them. The Trump administration is downright giddy about the economy and its bright prospects for the future. They boast about there being more jobs than available workers. But I contend this is a bad thing. In this episode I discuss why having more jobs than people to fill them is a sign we're committing national suicide… and why Catholics carry the brunt of the blame. The Cantankerous Catholic Social Media Group https://trumptown.com/cantankerouscatholicgroup (Join) our group where subscribers of The Cantankerous Catholic can meet to discuss the issues talked about in episodes, get opinions from other like minded people, or simply discuss anything effecting Catholics. Don’t like or trust Facebook? No problem! Joe Sixpack—The Every Catholic Guy doesn’t trust Facebook either. There have been too many instances of censorship on Facebook. If you promote abortion, LGBT issues, or anything anti-patriotic, you’re pretty much guaranteed to be unmolested by Facebook. But if you promote life, decency or morality, Facebook is subject to censor your posts, take down your page, or otherwise use some underhanded method to censor you. TrumpTown.com We’ve found an alternative to Facebook. It’s a new social media site called https://trumptown.com/?ref=JoeSixpack (TrumpTown.com). Whether you like President Trump or not, this is the one social media that doesn’t censor you for upholding Catholic values and morals. You’re completely free to discuss and promote anything you want, just as long as it isn’t immoral, indecent, or anti-American. Joe Sixpack—The Every Catholic Guy has been critical of President Trump on a number of issues, as is the right of all Americans.  https://trumptown.com/?ref=JoeSixpack (TrumpTown.com) has never molested him in any way, and they guarantee they won’t. The site otherwise works identically to Facebook. That is the reason Joe Sixpack—The Every Catholic Guy chose to host https://trumptown.com/cantankerouscatholicgroup (The Cantankerous Catholic Social Media Group) there. We have the added benefit and protection of being a private group. So https://trumptown.com/cantankerouscatholicgroup (join the group) now to meet other like minded Catholics. Not a Catholic? We’d still love to have you join us. You’ll find that we’re a very welcoming people. (Matthew [25:35]) Catholic Contributions This episode’s Catholic contributor is the Lepanto Institute. Catholic Stories This episode features a story about world heavyweight boxing champion Gene Tunney. Resources In an effort to provide you with the best, most helpful experience we can, any resource mentioned in The Cantankerous Catholic podcast will always be listed in this section. http://nfpandmore.org/ (Natural Family Planning International) provides high quality and low cost instruction about Natural Family Planning in the context of Christian discipleship and the moral teaching of the Catholic Church. “Natural Family Planning” includes both ecological breastfeeding and systematic natural family planning. This not-for profit organization was started in 2004 by John and Sheila Kippley on the basis of their 33 years of experience in teaching and writing about natural family planning. Via the internet NFPI makes NFP instruction available all throughout the world. https://www.stgiannacenter.com/ (St. Gianna's Center for Women's Health and Fertility Care). Their mission is to provide professional education, support, and training for the promotion of good reproductive health using the Creighton Model of FertilityCare™, which respects all human life and the self-worth of participants. The FertilityCare™ System is an NFP model that provides useful health information beyond family planning. https://www.joesixpackanswers.com/ (JoeSixpackAnswers.com)... Support this podcast

Kelly Castleberry desired to be more natural with her fertility soon after getting married, and picked up the book “Taking Charge of Your Fertility.” Kelly stopped taking the birth control pill and they avoided pregnancy for several months before attempting to conceive. When it didn’t happen within a few cycles, Kelly became alarmed and started seeking help. They experienced 1 failed IUI, 3 IVFs, and 1 miscarriage by the time they were 27. They had no living children and were without answers as to why they were experiencing infertility. The lack of compassion from their Reproductive Endocrinologists led them to walk away from mainstream infertility treatments in 2003. In 2004 they adopted a son, and in 2006 Kelly gave birth to a daughter. In the years that have followed, they have desired to continue the growth of our family, and that desire lead them to the Creighton Model FertilityCare System (a natural method of tracking women’s cycles) and NaProTECHNOLOGY. Because their FertilityCare Practitioner and NaProTECHNOLOGY medical consultant gave them answers, renewed hope, and compassion, Kelly wanted to help other women and couples heal from their infertility. In April 2016 she began working towards becoming a FertilityCare Practitioner, graduated from the Education Program in August 2017 and will become certified in early 2019. In June 2018, Kelly started learning how to teach FEMM (another natural method of charting women’s cycles) and TeenFEMM. She will take the 3 hour final exam in early 2019 and then be certified. Kelly also offers Organic Conceptions, an audio program that helps the couple improve emotional wellness - their sense of self, their ability to cope, and begin engaging in life again with newfound control on the journey to parenthood and beyond. Kelly works in a GYN office as an Office Manager/Health Educator teaching local patients and runs her own business – Dunwoody FertilityCare where she teaches the Creighton Model FertilityCareSystem and FEMM via Skype to clients all over the world. www.gafertilitycare.com Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram @gafertilitycare For more information about Michelle, visit www.thewholesomelotus.com For information on the Wholesome Fertility Method online program visit www.thewholesomefertilitymethod.com The Wholesome Fertility facebook group is where you can find free resources and support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ 

Chavah Brooke Hull, Creighton Model FertilityCare Practitioner, discusses this natural form of fertility tracking to help achieve or avoid pregnancy.

In this episode, Anna talks with Liz about her transformation into running her own business teaching the Creighton Model, and her unique offering helping women transition into pregnancy by offering birth preparation classes. Not only does Liz make a meaningful contribution to the family's finances through her work, she does it while blogging, maintaining a strong social media presence, and loving on her three children. Find Liz at www.indyfertilitycare.com

Exciting news! This doctor is literally saving lives all across America. He is a pioneer in reversing the effects of chemical abortions. Many mothers who swallow MIFEPRISTONE (Mifeprex or RU-486) -“the abortion pill”- deeply regret doing so within minutes, hours or a few days. Dr. George Delgado, though, can help many of these mothers reverse their chemical abortions by calling the Abortion Pill Reversal hotline. Dr. Delgado has built a network of 450 doctors with an established protocol on reversing chemical abortions and many lives have been saved. Every healthcare professional should embrace this breakthrough in medical science, but unfortunately, not all do. They are just too sold out in the industry of taking lives, but not Dr. Delgado. He’s in the practice of saving lives because there is no situation so desperate that a life has to be taken. Abortion Pill Reversal is a program of Culture of Life Family Services headquartered in San Diego, California. The APR program has a network of over 400 physicians worldwide to assist women that call our hotline. This hotline is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by one of our medical professionals. Dr. George Delgado is the medical director of APR and Culture of Life Services (COLFS) in San Diego County. He received his medical degree from the University of California, Davis and completed his residency at Santa Monica Hospital/UCLA. He is board certified in family medicine, hospice and palliative medicine, health care ethics, NaProTECHNOLOGY, and the Creighton Model for Natural Family Planning (NFP). He has been practicing family medicine since 1988. For Further Insight: Website: www.AbortionPillReversal.com

How much do you know about Natural Family Planning? Today, nurse practitioner Alex DeRose gets real about NFP, a topic that can be uncomfortable to discuss and therefore avoided. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Not only does Alex provide an overview to help you explain NFP to others, she answers specific questions about the Creighton Model, NAPRO technology, and explains why NFP is not Catholic birth control. Whether this is the first time you have heard about NFP or you consider yourself to be a NFP expert, this episode will prepare you to speak about natural family planning to anyone you may encounter within (or outside of) your parish.

Summary of today's show: Infertility is becoming an increasingly common problem in the 21st century and more and more women are being pushed to artificial reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization by their doctors, without regard to the lack of effectiveness and the physical, psychological, sociological, financial, and especially spiritual costs. Katie Elrod joins Scot Landry to talk about the Wild West of unregulated IVF and the moral and effective alternative in Natural Procreative Technologies, which respect human dignity and treats the underlying pathologies afflicting women instead of steering them immediately to very lucrative and dangerous IVF procedures. Listen to the show: Today's host(s): Scot Landry Today's guest(s): Katie Elrod Links from today's show: Today's topics: Infertility, Natural Family Planning, and NaPro Technology 1st segment: This week, July 22–28, the USCCB is asking all Catholic dioceses, parishes and families to mark National Family Planning Awareness Week. So as part of that effort, we will be discussing NFP, NaPro Technology and Infertility here on The Good Catholic Life today. Because of the subject matter, I wanted to note up front that this content might not be suitable for young kids. Parents will always know what age is appropriate but I did want to give a heads up if you have kids in the car or kitchen listening with you that this show might be best to catch later on our podcast or via TheGoodCatholicLife.com. “Faithfully Yours" is the theme of this Natural Family Planning Awareness Week, which is a national educational campaign of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) on the Catholic teaching on married love and the gift of human life. The annual campaign, which began in 2002, promotes awareness of Natural Family Planning (NFP) methods. Bishop Kevin Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Indiana, chairman of the USCCB Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth said: “NFP Awareness Week is an opportunity for married couples and Catholics everywhere to better understand and embrace the Church's uniquely positive and liberating message on the truth of married love.“ ”The theme for 2012, ‘Faithfully Yours,' highlights the beauty of how husbands and wives are called to live out their total dedication to one another." Our guest today to discuss NFP, a particular type of NFP called Napro Technology and Infertility is Katie Elrod. Katie is a “double-eagle” graduating from Boston College with Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Philosophy from Boston College. She has been a humanities teacher and administrator at independent schools for over fifteen years, and has taught in the Perspectives Program at Boston College. Elrod has spoken on natural fertility treatment at MIT, Boston College, Notre Dame University and at various Catholic women's conferences. She is also the author of “Chapter 6” in the acclaimed book “Women, Sex and the Church” that came out in 2010. Chapter 6 is entitled “The Church's Best Kept Secret: Church Teaching on Infertility Treatment.” She and her husband Kevin live outside of Boston with their son, T.J. 2nd segment: Scot welcomed Katie to the show. He noted that Katie is a teacher at Montrose School in Medfield. Katie became interested in the topic of infertility because of her own infertility. She and her husband pursued various avenues, including in vitro fertilization. She eventually found a doctor through the Archdiocese who specializes in National Procreative Technology. Katie said 35% of women are infertile and the rates are increasing. The rates for men are also increasing and they think because of environmental concerns. Men born in the 1970s have 25% fewer sperm than men born in the 1950s. Katie said she learned that infertility is not a disease in itself but is a symptom of other diseases and disorders. Ovulation disorder is the cause of 40%. It's when the female endocrine system doesn't produce enough of the hormones to allow the embryo to implant. Scot asked the definition of infertility. Katie said the technical term is that you are unable to deliver a baby. Some women are able to conceive but not able to carry to term. But infertility is an umbrella term and most women who are infertile have two or more pathologies going on. Scot said sexually transmitted diseases are often at the root of infertility. Katie said she was horrified to find out how common it is. The CDC estimates that there are 19 million new diagnoses of STDs every year in the US. Some of the most common forms can go unnoticed, but they cause scar tissue that prevents the egg from moving into the fallopian tube. STDs cause at least 24,000 each year in the US to become infertile. Sometimes it's reversible, but it depends on how long it goes untreated. Scot said he understands that when a woman goes to a doctor with trouble to conceive, the doctors don't often properly diagnose. Katie said 25% of women have unexplained fertility, meaning the doctor doesn't find out what's wrong. But it doesn't have to be although it requires a lot of time, patience, and bloodwork. Scot said instead they're often just pushed toward in vitro fertilization and assisted reproductive technologies. Katie said it's a multi billion dollar business with a lot of money and little regulation. It gives the doctor a lot of control. They fertilize eggs in a lab and then implant them in the woman's womb. Scot asked Katie to explain the Church's teaching on this. Katie said there is lots of reasons why it's bad for women, not just the morality of it. Katie said people say it's not fair to prevent women from having IVF. It's not just because embryos are discarded. Even if no extra embryos were created, it would still be a violation of human dignity. This procedure trikes at the core of the meaning of marriage and the marital act. The act in which designed human beings to be conceived is sacred because it mirrors the way God loves. God is love. He does not have love or contain love. He is love itself. Love is giving and to be in communion with others. This is why God is three persons. God is his own family. God's children are created to love as God does. The highest expression of this love is in the marital act between husband and wife. In their bond they have the potential to be co-creators of a new life with God. Scot said Cardinal Seán often says the Church is seen as the Church of No, but the beauty of the Theology of the Body is that we are a Church of Yes, saying yes to God as part of his plan for us and all of humanity. Katie said saying yes rot life is saying yes to love. Scot said Katie describes IVF as the Wild West of medicine, an industry growing quickly and is very unregulated. It's something that attempts to create human life and control fertility, but is unregulated. Katie said it's bad medicine because it's unregulated, bad for the husband, wife and the child. In 1982, clinics were requested to report their data to the CDC, but it's voluntary. But no one checks the data. Because it's seen as a women's issue, this is why it's unregulated. Scot said women of all ages are getting pushed to IVF, not just women getting married in later life. Katie said 60% of women using IVF are over 35, even though the success rates drop dramatically after 35 to 20% and all the way down to 5% after 40. The CDC is not tracking who's using IVF, their age, their relationships, etc. Katie said if a woman is suffering some kind of pathology, she needs to be treated for it regardless of whether she goes for IVF. If the womb isn't healthy it's not good for the baby or the woman. Instead once you restore the woman to health, then let's try to conceive in a natural way to respect the dignity of a woman. Scot said part of the reason there's a better way is because there are risks to women. Katie said the woman goes through an invasive procedure that will only increase the physical costs. She takes a drug to stimulate her ovaries so she can produce 5 to 10 eggs in one cycle, as opposed to one per cycle. As they take Lupron, the side-effects include failure of the ovary which can result in infertility or even death. The FDA has over 6,000 complaints about the drug, but no investigation has been done. Just this year, a Netherlands study found that IVF doubles the chance of ovarian cancer. Katie said there is a movement to discourage young women from taking these drugs to sell their eggs because of the risk they're taking. There is also a physical cost for the babies. Katie said a 2002 study concluded that IVF babies have twice the risk of major birth defects. The chance of miscarriage is 7 times higher. The movement in IVF has been to reduce the number of babies in the womb to two so there's a desire to have fewer children at a time. But even single babies have increased risk of prematurity and low birth weight. Scot said there's a practice of selective reduction in which doctors abort some of the babies that have been conceived. Katie said this happens in all assisted artificial reproductive technologies. Scot asked listeners to imagine how this couple that's been struggling to conceive a child and now they're being asked to abort their children. It's psychologically damaging. Katie said in the New York Times there was an article about a new trend in IVF in which women who are pregnant with twins voluntarily go in and ask to have one of her children aborted in order to give the other a better chance to survive the pregnancy or even to have a better quality of life or more resources after birth. “Things would have been different if we were 15 years younger or if we hadn't had children already or if we were more financially secure,” she said later. “If I had conceived these twins naturally, I wouldn't have reduced this pregnancy, because you feel like if there's a natural order, then you don't want to disturb it. But we created this child in such an artificial manner — in a test tube, choosing an egg donor, having the embryo placed in me — and somehow, making a decision about how many to carry seemed to be just another choice. The pregnancy was all so consumerish to begin with, and this became yet another thing we could control.” It shows why the Church is opposed to this because we've dehumanized the children and turned this beautiful miracle into a base transaction. 3rd segment: Katie said her husband asked her to call the archdiocese to find out if there's a morally acceptable choice for treating infertility. But first, she wanted to talk about the Catholic principles surrounding fertility. There are three guiding principles in the Vatican instruction : The Church believes every human being has the right to live. The Church has great concern for the half-million embryos in cryogenic storage. The spouses only have the right to become biological mother and biological father through each other. This relates to the increase in the use of donor eggs or donor sperm or surrogacy.The sexual act is a sacred act to create new life. This new life has a right to know his or her parents. The Church believes each child has the right to be conceived in the self-giving act of his parents. Men and women don't have a right to be parents. They have a right to the marital act, but not a right to a child ataxy cost. No person has a claim on the right to the life of another. Otherwise that person would have their life subjugated to the lives of others. Scot asked how someone would feel as an adult finding out they were produced this way when there was a better way. Katie said we're starting to get data on children conceived through anonymous sperm donors. The majority of these children say they would not do the same thing to their own children and they do think half of their identity comes through their biological father. So when a child born of an IVF, they are created through pornography and masturbation. They were created by an anonymous person in a lab in a petri dish and then implanted. And you were there with your brothers and sisters who were selectively reduced. Natural family planning is an umbrella term for methods to conceive or avoid conception through observation of natural signs in a woman's ovulation cycle. It requires communication among a couple and fertility is a shared obligation. Katie and her husband connected with Dr. Paul Carpentier who recommended a form of NFP called the Creighton Model. It's a kind of NFP that is standardized observation and charting of biological markers. It's used by millions of people around the world. It was standardized by a doctor at Creighton University in Nebraska. Dr. Hilgers used NFP to help treat infertility. This subset of NFP is called Natural Procreative Technologies (NaPro Technology). It's primary goal is to restore a woman's reproductive health. It properly diagnoses the underlying pathologies. The woman is a full participant by charting her bio-markers and often sees before the doctor does what is wrong. It also treats all kinds of reproductive health issues, including postpartum depression and PMS. Once it is properly diagnosed, the treatment usually happens without a lot of invasive procedures. Hilgers trains other doctors in the delicate forms of laparascopy to fix endometriosis. Scot said the difference is taking time and care to treat the whole person versus ignoring the underlying problems to create the baby in the fastest way possible. NaPro is about healing the woman. It respects the woman's biological systems. Katie said NaPro's effective to IVF is very high. IVF success ranges from 35% at the highest down to 10% depending on age. A study of NaPro done in 2003 looked at a pool of women who have already had low success with IVF and the result was a 50% live birth rate. AMong the women who didn't need surgery there was a 70% live birth rate. More and more medical students are interested in learning NaPro, even if they're not motivated by the moral teaching, but because it's good medicine. Katie said in the beginning she wish she'd been practicing NFP in the Creighton model that could have revealed the problems. She also wants to say to young women not to wait if they think something is wrong. Doctors will often tell them just ti wait, that they'll get pregnancy eventually. Instead, find a NaPro practitioner and start treatment right away. The book and the chapter Katie wrote in it is the best resource on these fertility treatments. To women who think maybe it's not God's plan for them to have children, Katie said NaPro is not 100% effective. We don't know what God's plan is for each couple. All we can do is return women to health. A life without children by a couple who is open to life regardless is a great witness to the world which says we can have whatever we want whenever we want it. The whole purpose of the Church's understanding of life-giving love is that we have to love. If we're not giving love in having children, how can we love in other ways?