Expert: Rev. Stuart Woodward - 4/12/2005

Question
I would like to find about teachings of Contraceptions in Christianity. Thank you. Bye

Answer
Hello Sasha,
Thank you for your question. The bible, from which Christians derive their beliefs, says nothing about contraception. However, the bible does make it clear that all human life is sacred and that life begins at conception. Thus for most Christians any contraception that destroys the conceived life (however early a stage) is wrong. The bible is also clear that a sexual relationship is to between a man and a woman only in the context of a life long marriage relationship.
Some Christians, particularly  Roman Catholics, believe that sex is for procreation only and so any form of contraception is wrong. Most, however, believe that sex is also given by God for pleasure between a husband and wife. They therefore believe that contraception that prevents conception taking place is acceptable. I am not sufficiently knowledgeable about medicine to advise as to which forms of contraception come under which category. However, condoms and the pill are widely used by Christians whereas the morning after pill and other medical methods of ending the life of that which has already been conceived would not be seen as acceptable.
I hope my comments are of some help to you.
Stuart Woodward