Contraception in Christianity
Contraception refers to methods used to prevent pregnancy, and it's a surprisingly contentious issue within Christianity. You'll find that different churches have completely different approaches to this topic.
There are three main types of contraceptive methods you should know about. The pill and injections use hormones to stop women from releasing eggs. Barrier methods like condoms and diaphragms physically prevent sperm from meeting the egg. Finally, the coil stops fertilised eggs from implanting in the womb.
The Catholic Church takes the strictest stance, viewing most contraception as going against God's natural law and the primary purpose of marriage - having children. Catholics are only permitted to use the rhythm method, which means avoiding sex during a woman's fertile periods each month.
Most other Christian denominations are more flexible about contraception. They accept it as a way to limit family sizes so parents can properly care for all their children, protect the mother's health, or allow couples to strengthen their relationship before having babies. However, some Christians who believe life begins at conception oppose methods like the coil that prevent fertilised eggs from developing.
Quick Tip: Remember that Christian views on contraception often depend on when they believe life begins - this is key to understanding their reasoning.