1 min read
Contraception (Humanae Vitae)
Contraception is any action which, either in anticipation of the conjugal act, or in its accomplishment, proposes to render procreation impossible.
Contraception refers to any act that deliberately frustrates the procreative potential of the sexual act between a husband and wife (CCC 2370). As defined in the encyclical Humanae Vitae, it is intrinsically evil because it severs the unitive and procreative meanings of the marriage act (CCC 2366, 2370).
Unitive and Procreative
The Church teaches that the marriage act must remain open to the transmission of life. By using contraception, a couple acts as 'masters' over the source of life rather than ministers of God's design (CCC 2366-2367).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Natural Family Planning (NFP) considered contraception? No. NFP respects the biological laws established by God, using infertile periods for just reasons (CCC 2370).
May the Lord bless you and keep you.
Browse
All glossary terms
Join the community
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for curated inspiration, delivered to your inbox.
We never share your data. See Privacy Policy for more info.