Contraception

Question 1

Overview of Contraception

Answer 1

Contraception involves the use of methods or devices to prevent pregnancy. It can include hormonal methods (e.g., birth control pills), barrier methods (e.g., condoms), intrauterine devices (IUDs), and sterilization procedures.
Some forms of contraception are reversible (e.g., condoms or pills), while others are permanent (e.g., sterilization).
The goal of contraception is typically to plan or limit family size, control the timing of pregnancies, or protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Question 2

Christianity

Answer 2

The Catholic Church traditionally opposes artificial contraception, based on the belief that the natural purpose of sex is both unitive (to foster love and unity between spouses) and procreative (to create life). According to Catholic teaching, contraception disrupts this dual purpose and is therefore morally wrong.
The Church allows for natural family planning (NFP), which involves tracking the woman’s fertility cycle to avoid or achieve pregnancy without the use of artificial methods.
The Humanae Vitae (1968) encyclical, written by Pope Paul VI, reaffirmed the Church’s opposition to artificial contraception.

Question 3

Islam

Answer 3

Islam permits contraception, provided it is done with mutual consent between husband and wife and for a valid reason, such as health concerns, economic hardship, or the desire to space out children for the well-being of the family.
Family planning is generally encouraged, as long as it does not involve permanent sterilization (which is often seen as impermissible unless for health reasons).
Some scholars argue that contraception is permissible based on the Islamic principle of istihsan (juridical preference) and the belief that marriage and procreation are important but should be balanced with responsible care for family members.

Question 4

Judaism

Answer 4

Jewish law allows contraception in specific circumstances. The Torah encourages procreation but also places importance on the health and well-being of the mother.
Contraception may be allowed for medical reasons, financial concerns, or when there are concerns about the physical or emotional health of the mother.
Orthodox Judaism generally permits contraception, but the methods should not harm the body or be used inappropriately (e.g., using contraception for selfish reasons).
Conservative and Reform Judaism tend to have more liberal views on contraception, supporting a broader range of methods for family planning.

Question 5

Hinduism

Answer 5

Hinduism does not have a single, uniform stance on contraception, as beliefs can vary based on interpretation of sacred texts and cultural context.
Generally, Hinduism encourages procreation within marriage as a duty, but modern interpretations recognize that contraception can be used to manage family size and health.
Contraception may be viewed as acceptable, especially in cases where it is necessary to protect the health of the mother, to space children, or due to economic considerations.
Some Hindu texts discuss the importance of children but do not necessarily forbid the use of contraception. Many Hindu leaders emphasize responsible parenthood.