Humanae Vitae

Pope Paul VI's 1968 encyclical letter, Humanae Vitae, addresses the Catholic Church's teaching on birth control. It examines the changing social and technological landscape, including population growth and advancements in contraception, and their impact on marital morality. The encyclical reaffirms the Church's traditional teaching against artificial contraception, citing the inseparable connection between the unitive and procreative aspects of marital acts. However, it permits the use of natural family planning methods such as the rhythm method. Finally, the letter offers pastoral guidance to various groups, including married couples, clergy, and public officials, emphasizing the importance of responsible parenthood and upholding the moral law.