WOMEN’S REFLECTIONS ON LEARNING FERTILITY AWARENESS:
BARRIERS, ENCOURAGING FACTORS, EFFECTS, AND MOTIVATIONS

By Rose Yewchuk

A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in
Leadership and Training, Royal Roads University, April 2006.

Abstract

This study presents the experiences of women users of Fertility Awareness and Natural
Family Planning (FA/NFP). Clients of three Edmonton-based organizations were surveyed by
means of an anonymous online questionnaire. Respondents were asked about their learning
strategies, motivations for using FA/NFP, the challenges or barriers they encountered, and the
effects of FA/NFP on their lives. The questionnaire received a 9.3% response rate. Respondents
encountered relatively few barriers and experienced significant benefits from using FA/NFP. The
results showed a positive correlation between the length of time using FA/NFP and an increased
capacity for positive self-care and personal empowerment. The study concludes with
recommendations for disseminating FA/NFP information to a wider audience, including the
importance of reconnecting women with their body knowing.

Executive Summary.pdf

Women's Reflections on Fertility Awareness.pdf