A variety of training programs exist in the world that certify fertility awareness teachers/educators/counselors. Within AFAP, they are known as fertility awareness educators (FAEs) who specialize in teaching variations of the Sympto-Thermal Method (STM). Up until recently, there were no unified certification requirements for becoming an FAE, either nationally or internationally. Each training program is independent and has its own set of standards. Beginning nearly a decade ago, AFAP recognized the need to consolidate the training components and status of FAEs. The organization established a professional standards committee (PSC), mandated to develop unified standards of training and practice among all FAEs whose certifications are recognized by AFAP. In 2016, the PSC published the first Core Competencies for FAEs which is periodically updated to reflect the knowledge, skills and changing competencies deemed necessary for FAEs to learn and practice. The members who serve on the PSC represent the faculties of the four training programs (https://www.fertilityawarenessprofessionals.org/become-an-educator/how-to-become-certified/), which AFAP has identified as meeting the highest training standards in our field. Without such standards and requirements, consumers have no way to distinguish between instructors who are certified by a recognized program and have spent years studying and training under supervision, from those who are inspired to spread the word but lack the depth and seasoned expertise that a professional training program ensures.
Outside of AFAP there are numerous programs that are short-term, abbreviated and narrow in scope. Many of these programs are sponsored and supported by religious organizations that may not permit their graduates to offer or support their clients using the full spectrum of reproductive options and continuity of care. ‘FABM’ (Fertility Awareness Based Methods) is currently being used as an umbrella term to include all variations of methods, however effective. This has led to confusion amongst users. AFAP programs aim to help clients discern the efficacy of the various methods while offering education with a practice that is well steeped in scientific research with high efficacy.
AFAP accredited programs are long-term, and by design, graduates are trained to offer comprehensive client care rather than just method instruction, as detailed in the following section. These programs have a unified definition of professional standards and are independent of religious agendas. The programs accredited by AFAP are designed to offer full client care throughout the reproductive years, including handling abnormal parameters and variations.
For Fertility Awareness Users, AFAP Accreditation means:
- AFAP-accredited educators have demonstrated mastery in the AFAP core competencies and are highly qualified to provide instruction in Fertility Awareness-Based Methods (FABMs).
- In evidence-based studies that demonstrate high efficacy for FABMs, users received standardized training and follow-up from experienced instructors. Professional instruction can facilitate quicker learning and increase user confidence.
- AFAP-accredited educators are skilled at helping clients address a variety and complexity of experience (e.g. coming off hormonal contraception; trying to conceive; preventing pregnancy in the post-partum period, during breastfeeding, and when approaching menopause; PCOS; infertility; endometriosis.)
- AFAP-accredited educators respect all persons’ rights to receive inclusive and non-prejudicial professional care and competent reproductive health services.
- AFAP strongly recommends that people wishing to use an FABM, especially for the prevention of pregnancy, obtain professional instruction from a certified FAE. Community and peer support can be valuable, but are not a substitute for professional instruction.
For Fertility Awareness Educators, AFAP Accreditation means:
- Demonstrated competency in the areas deemed essential by AFAP in order to be an educator in this field and to serve the public, guided by a professional standard of care.
- Enhanced professional credibility through affiliation with AFAP. Accredited FAEs are eligible to display the “AFAP Accredited” icon on their websites and related materials.
As of 2025, all AFAP-accredited teacher training programs will be aligned in their professional standards, including continuing education offerings, and a code of ethics. Similar to other professional organizations and guilds that pay membership dues, FAE graduates are required to participate in continuing education (CE), in order to maintain their status to practice. AFAP, together with each training program affiliate, will also offer CE events for credit and FAEs will be responsible for submitting proof of attendance at said events at the end of each certification cycle (1-2 years).
The AFAP Accreditation icon indicates that the person displaying it has graduated from a teacher training program that meets AFAP’s high standards.
