In the USA, we generally use the term Natural Family Planning (NFP) to refer to those Fertility Awareness Based Methods (FABMs) that are taught within a Catholic context, and we use Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) to refer to methods that are taught in a secular context. There are many similarities between FAM & NFP. Both employ the same scientific principles. Both enable people with menstrual cycles to know if they are fertile on any given day, based on observable symptoms, or biomarkers, of the body’s hormonal status (commonly known as “fertility signs”).
The differences between FAM and NFP have less to do with the science and more to do with the way the methods are taught and practiced. NFP instruction is sometimes offered only to heterosexual married or engaged couples, whereas FAM instruction is open to anyone, regardless of relationship status or sexuality. NFP calls for abstinence on fertile days, whereas FAM users may choose to incorporate barrier methods or to enjoy forms of sexual expression that do not lead to pregnancy. FAM instruction supports the use of condoms for disease prevention, as well as assisted reproductive technology, emergency contraception, and pregnancy termination, when needed or desired by the FAM user. NFP does not support the use of those measures.
Please note that FAM instructors themselves may have religious or spiritual belief systems of their own, but do not preference or promote these beliefs when teaching. Qualified Fertility Awareness Educators should be able to sensitively work with people from any background, ethnicity, or religion, and should respect the identity of their clients. I have worked with Amish couples speaking to me on outdoor phones, religious Jews who observe the practice of niddah, clients who disclosed to me that they were having extramarital affairs, polyamorous folks, and lesbian women wanting to identify the right time to inseminate. I do my utmost to treat all my clients with respect, to be as culturally competent and curious as I can be, and, as we say in social work, to “start where the client is.”
In recent times it has become harder to distinguish between methods which are taught in a completely secular context and support the full range of reproductive choices, and those which are taught in a Catholic context and do not. If you are looking at a website related to FABMs, read carefully, look at funding sources and affiliations, and ask questions if you’re not sure. As with all healthcare decisions, your choice of a Fertility Awareness or NFP educator should be fully informed and aligned with your beliefs and preferences.