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Questions & Answers

Family Planning

Faith Q&A › Metropolitan Youssef › Marriage and Family › Family Planning

The question

In my culture, normally contraceptives are not allowed at all, so that is why I want to know other options. Are condoms allowed? I think as long as you already have decided you do not want to have a baby and if this is okay in the eyes of God to do so, why does it matter which method you use. The point at the end is avoiding it before it happens.

The answer

The best family planning is the natural family planning. The use of condoms is allowed. This is different from what is written in Genesis 38:6-10. The Church allows a few specific contraceptives, which do not interfere with a fertilized egg, for the purpose of family planning, not for planning to not have a family at all. 
 
"Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one's youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with their enemies in the gate" (Psalm 17:3-5).

Answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab)

Related questions

Questions answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab) of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States. Question 2366 on the Diocese’s Q&A site. Questions and answers © Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States. All rights reserved.