Infertility

When a couple experiences infertility, it is a serious burden and cross for them to bear. This pain is valid, and the Church wants to accompany couples along this road. During the wedding vows at a Catholic wedding rite, spouses promise to love each other totally, faithfully, freely and fruitfully. Many times, a couple does not know the struggles they will face, but there is grace given to them to face these through the Sacraments. When visible fruit does not come (children), it can feel like God is forgetting a couple or they did something wrong. The desire to be a parent is good and natural. 

The Church encourages couples to seek Restorative Reproductive Medicine that seeks to restore natural fertility (such as NaPro or FEMM medical management). These methods of reproductive medicine are approved by the Catholic Church because they do not separate the unitive (bonding of spouses) and procreative (openness to life) ends essential to Catholic teaching on sex within marriage. According to Donum Vitae, fertility treatments meant to replace the marriage act are morally wrong. Those meant to assist it in conceiving life may be permitted. If restorative medicine has been sought out and there is no explanation or clear way forward - the Church wants to support these couples and for them to know there is fruit to still be born. This is the time for spouses to ask God for direction and to discern together where God is calling them to be fruitful (spiritual parenthood, adoption, fostering, community life, etc.). 

Springs in the Desert 

Encouragement from blog posts, podcast episodes, resources, and virtual and in-person events

For local restorative reproductive medicine, fertility awareness education, and medical referrals, please contact Marian Medical Clinic at Saint Francis