What it is?
Natural family planning (also known as fertility awareness method) is when a woman uses her menstrual cycle to identify when she is most fertile. This method can be used to indicate when a couple should avoid or plan intercourse depending on whether or not they are trying to get pregnant.
How it works
The ovulation process takes place during a woman’s menstrual cycle when an egg is released from the ovaries. It travels through the fallopian tubes towards the uterus where fertilisation may take place. If the egg is not fertilised, it can live for 12 to 24 hours, and will later be discarded during the menstrual period.
A woman is most fertile just before or just after ovulation, so contraceptive precautions should be taken during this time to prevent pregnancy.
During a woman’s menstrual cycle her body will go through several changes that can help her to identify when she is most fertile. These changes are also known as fertile indicators. These include:
- Length of menstrual cycle
- Body temperature (known as BBT, Basal Body Temperature)
- Cervical secretion
Advantages
- No side effects
- Can be used to plan or avoid pregnancy
Disadvantages
- Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Need to avoid sex or use a barrier method of contraception if have sex during fertile times
- Must be taught correctly and the instructions must be meticulously followed in order for it to be effective
- Needs high level of commitment from both partners
How effective is it?
If carried out correctly it is over 99% effective.
