natural family planning

noun

: a method of birth control that involves abstention from sexual intercourse during the period of ovulation which is determined through observation and measurement of bodily symptoms

Examples of natural family planning in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Today a suite of fertility apps and laboratory-grade ovulation test strips make natural family planning more accessible than ever—not only for the religious, but also for the countless women who have grown wary of hormonal birth control. Ashley McGuire, WSJ, 26 July 2018 Earlier this year, the administration made a point of encouraging providers that emphasize natural family planning methods, sometimes called fertility awareness, to apply for money. Michelle Andrews, Washington Post, 12 June 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'natural family planning.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1972, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of natural family planning was in 1972

Dictionary Entries Near natural family planning

Cite this Entry

“Natural family planning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/natural%20family%20planning. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

Medical Definition

natural family planning

noun
natural family plan·​ning -ˈplan-iŋ How to pronounce natural family planning (audio)
: a method of birth control that involves abstention from sexual intercourse during the period of ovulation which is determined through observation and measurement of bodily signs (as cervical mucus and body temperature)
abbreviation NFP
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