Episode 125: What Every NFP User Should Know About Cervical Fluid ‪@thenfppodcast‬

How effective is Natural Family Planning—and why do some couples experience unexpected pregnancies despite faithfully following their method? In this thought-provoking episode of The NFP Podcast, Amy and Emily welcome Allison Dreher—former Billings Ovulation Method instructor, international speaker, fertility awareness advocate, and women's health educator—for an honest conversation about one of the most important (and often least discussed) topics in the NFP community. Together, they explore the science behind cervical fluid, why it is one of the body's most valuable biomarkers of fertility, and how understanding the body's natural signs can empower women to better understand their reproductive health. Allison also introduces Isvara, a new fertility awareness app developed through the Saint Augustine Foundation that focuses on body literacy, cycle tracking, and connecting women with restorative reproductive healthcare providers and certified NFP instructors. But this conversation goes far beyond charting. Amy, Emily, and Allison candidly discuss the emotional realities many couples experience when practicing NFP—including the grief, frustration, and isolation that can accompany an unexpected pregnancy or years of abstinence while trying to avoid pregnancy for serious reasons. Together they reflect on why these stories deserve more compassionate discussion within the NFP community and how we can better support couples carrying these crosses. Throughout the episode, the hosts also examine why ovulation is a vital sign of women's health, the importance of body literacy from adolescence through menopause, the differences between various fertility awareness methods, and why learning to recognize your body's unique patterns can deepen both your confidence and your conversations with healthcare professionals. Whether you're brand new to fertility awareness or you've been charting for years, this episode offers an encouraging reminder that understanding your body is about far more than family planning—it's about recognizing the incredible wisdom built into the female body and learning to approach it with confidence, curiosity, and compassion. Join us for a conversation that combines cutting-edge science, practical wisdom, and heartfelt encouragement for every woman seeking to better understand her fertility journey. Resources: 1. URL to the web based platform for Evaria: https://evaria.cwcnfp.org 2. Fertility Awareness 101-    • Fertility Awareness 101   3. Body Literacy 101 videos-    • Body Literacy 101   4. St. Augustine Foundation- https://www.thestaugustinefoundation....