Too many kids, too fast?

[Jp123]

My wife and I have 4 children and the oldest is 4. We just found out that child number 5 (that’s five kids in 5 years) is on the way. Having four has caused significant financial issues and deteriorating mental health for my wife. We have tried all types of NFP methods without success do to her having irregular cycles. If NFP is ineffective, what are our options? We have kids, but this rate is unsustainable for us and I am seriously worried for my wife’s health. The only options for us to avoid pregnancy at this point is abstinence or something the church considers sinful.
Can someone please provide the theological reasons why we would not at least be able to take a break from having kids for the health of my wife?
Thank you

 

[IdaCatholic]

You can take a break from having kids. You may not use methods that are sinful. You may abstain or use a very conservative NFP.

 

[TheLittleLady]

Agree with @idacatholic and the Church, it is not only okay, it sounds as if it is compassionate, to refrain for awhile.

I would suggest speaking to a trainer in your chosen method of NFP and adding in some tech:

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This is a good book, for real people. It is $5 for Kindle

https://www.amazon.com/Sinners-Guid...way&sprefix=sinners+guide+to+n,aps,296&sr=8-1

 

[Elf01]

I would suggest speaking to a trainer in your chosen method of NFP and adding in some tech:

I would also look at other methods.

 

[TheLittleLady]

Yep, because irregular cycles are not a hindrance to tracking fertility. In fact, if we all had regular cycles we would not need modern NFP.

 

[Psalm30]

The Marquette Method of NFP is highly effective. It can work with irregular cycles. It’s expensive but very straightforward and easy to use.

 

[Anicette]

I think abstinence after the next birth is the best way in your situation.
And theorically not the hardest period in your life to live it, because you will be busy with the children, and your wife would probably need time to recover.

I am not sure that so close after a birth, that NFP methods can be use in an optimal way, as cycles are often very irregular the first months after the fertility come back. (as breasteeding seems to not have offer you any delay).

Maybe after, you would be able to find another method that you brings much more effectiveness, as some suggests?
So many women have irregular cycles.

I pray for your family, it should be very difficult.

 

[TheLittleLady]

So, should you use another method you would have lots of company.

Please, do not advise people to commit sins.

 

[ZemD]

I have very irregular cycles and have had success with the Creighton Model. We also used it through the postpartum/breastfeeding period. There were long stretches that we had to avoid because we were not ready for another child, and it was sometimes difficult to determine fertility before my cycle returned, but we were successful.

My NFP instructor actually used our case as an example when she went to renew her certification. She said we were a difficult case and would prove the effectiveness of the system and her instruction.