Title: Making periodic abstinence more acceptable to NFP users.

POPLINE Document Number: 107744

Author(s):

Uricchio W

Source citation:

In: Natural family planning: current knowledge and new strategies for the 1990s. Proceedings of a conference, Part II, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, December 10-14, 1990, edited by John T. Queenan, Victoria H. Jennings, Jeffrey M. Spieler, Helena von Hertzen. [Washington, D.C.], Georgetown University, Institute for International Studies in Natural Family Planning, [1991]. :144.

Abstract:

The participants felt that the term "periodic abstinence" was negative and should not be used. It was suggested that the focus be on new dimensions of the relationship, including "outercourse." For example, couples can lack the ability to love fully and comfortably when the sexual aspects of marriage are overemphasized, rather than the emotional aspects, particularly feelings of love and tenderness. Periodic abstinence should not be identified with puritanism or the withholding of love, but rather with a period to rediscover, refuel, and revitalize the love of the couple. Periodic abstinence can be used positively to challenge a couple's customary patterns of relating by removing the focus on sexual intercourse. This can be seen as an opportunity for the couple to increase their awareness of and sensitivity to each other from which feelings of love and tenderness grow deeper. This approach should be taught early in the relationship, as part of the relationship, rather than attempting to change established behavior and attitude patterns at a later stage in the relationship. Therefore, periodic abstinence and alternative expressions of affection should be a natural part of children's education and development. (full text)

Keywords:

Abstinence
Method Acceptability
Attitude
Partner Communication
Counseling
Changes
Family Planning, Behavioral Methods
Family Planning
Contraceptive Usage
Contraception
Psychological Factors
Behavior
Interpersonal Relations
Clinic Activities
Program Activities
Programs
Organization and Administration
Social Change