[Antoninus]

With NFP the couple is not actively *blocking* conception. But even though the means differ, the *intent* is the same. Under both scenarios, the couple wants to have their cake and eat it too. So why is the NFP option ok? (Again, assuming that it is just used for a few months and there's a valid reason to avoid pregancy.)

First of all, NFP is only supposed to be used under serious circumstances. Even so, couples practicing NFP are supposed to remain open to the possibility of children and recognize that children are gifts from God and not ever "mistakes". Once you accept this teaching, the idea that you would ever use an artificial method to attempt to impose your will upon God becomes anathema.

So the mindset behind NFP is the polar opposite of the mindset behind artificial birth control which has as its goal the 100% blocking of fertility. In this case of NFP, the practice of it also helps the couple understand the theology behind it. Indeed, many couples who start out using NFP end up with large families specifically because it draws the couple closer together and helps them understand the tremendous gift they've been given. Oh, and once you understand how it works, the method is just as good at making babies as spacing them. :-)

[timm22]

Ok, so as I understand it even NFP is not acceptable in all circumstances. But it is morally acceptable in some circumstances. However, all other forms of birth control are never morally acceptable. I'd like to ask follow up questions based on this distinction, but first I want to make sure I'm not setting up a straw man.

Basically, I've heard 3 reasons why NFP is treated differently. There are probably more that I'm not aware of, but I'll briefly summarize the ones I know:

1. Intent or mindset- It is argued that the intent or mindset behind NFP is unique in that it is open to the possibility of children and does not reduce sex to a selfish act.

2. Artificiality- It is argued that methods of birth control like the Pill or condoms are artificial interferences with the natural order, making them immoral.

3. Effect- It is argued that NFP is not an attempt to 100% preclude conception, like other methods of birth control.

Would you say this is a fair summary of the reasoning behind the Church's position on NFP and other methods of birth control? Am I missing anything?

(I'm also aware of objections to birth control based on the risk of inducing abortion...I do not include them since I largely agree with those objections).