Being open to life. This is one of the issues that were discussed by Bishops during the Synod on the Family. The final document, on point number 63, calls on married couples to embrace natural family planning.
One of the most popular methods is known as 'Billings.' A method that was made public more than 70 years ago.
ANGELO FRANCESCO FILARDO
Gynecologist
'A study from the World Health Organization, concluded that the Billings method is more effective than the pill. In fact, the Billings method is accurate 94 percent of the time, whereas the pill is effective 93.3 percent. So it's even more effective than popular birth control pills.â?
It's based on women understanding their own bodies. To learn the techniques, there are free courses taught by volunteers, among them are Angelo and his wife Concetta.
ANGELO FRANCESCO FILARDO
Gynecologist
'It's accessible to all couples and they understand it, they welcome it. What's more, it doesn't have any of the side effects of the pill and other contraceptives.â?
CONCETTA FURFARO
Billings Method Instructor
'With birth control pills and other contraceptives, fertility is treated like a disease. But fertility is not a disease, it's something completely natural.â?
Angelo and his wife opened a center, back in 1981 to teach other couples about the Billings method. Part of that motivation comes from the encyclical, Humanae Vitae.
CONCETTA FURFARO
Billings Method Instructor
'Women who start using this method, never leave it. No one ever says, it's too complicated or that it's difficult to understand.â?
ANGELO FRANCESCO FILARDO
Gynecologist
'There are no side effects and it doesn't cost anything. It allows couples to fully live out their intimate relationship.â?
Through this Natural Family planning method, women can understand their bodies and fertility and act accordingly, without any side effects.
The Italian Confederation of the Centers for the Natural Regulation of Fertility is leading the pack when it comes to teaching about the Billings method. It has 22 centers in Italy and through support from the local Bishops Conference, the courses are taught for free. Similar centers are also found in other countries.
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