Contraception

What is natural family planning?

This method involves nothing else than the observation of your menstrual cycle to determine when you are fertile.  It is also sometimes referred to as the “calendar” method.  Women are usually fertile for about 7 days in their menstrual cycle; a short time before, during, and a short time after ovulation.  Using simple calculations, it is possible to determine when your ovulation will occur and how long it will last. (See the section Using Natural Family Planning below for clear calculation instructions) Once you know when your ovulation time is, you know you need to avoid unprotected sex during that time.

This method is entirely natural and easy to use, if your menstrual cycle is regular. It also comes with some disadvantages.  There are many factors that can disturb your ovulation and offset your calculations.

Natural family planning is only considered to be 80% effective.

• Obviously this method offers no protection whatsoever against sexually transmitted infections (STI’s).  Condoms are always required to prevent infections.
• If you have an irregular menstrual cycle, this method is definitely not for you.
• Stress and fatigue can upset your menstrual cycle, making your calculations dubious at best, leading to a higher risk of pregnancy.

How much does it cost?

Absolutely nothing

How does it work?

• To help you keep track of your ovulation period, use a calendar where you can circle the days when you have your period and the ones when you are fertile.
• First, you have to calculate the length of your menstrual cycle.  The first day of your period is the first day of your menstrual cycle, and the last day of the cycle is the day right before your next period starts.  From there you can determine how long your menstrual cycle is and whether or not it is regular.  These observations should be done over a few months to make sure they are accurate.
• If your cycle is regular and is 28 days long, you will be fertile between the 10th and the 18th days of your cycle. Circle them in your calendar to avoid having unprotected sex during that period.
• Ask your doctor to help you map out your menstrual cycle to make sure the method is as effective as possible.

What are the Pros and Cons?

• This method will allow a better understanding of your menstrual cycle and of your fertility period
• It’s totally free
• Natural Family Planning has no side effects or medical risks like some of the other birth control methods.
• This method makes communication between you and your partner very important, as he is also involved in the decision to have sex or not during your fertile period.
• For some women, this method allows them to respect cultural or religious guidelines.

• Out of all the birth control methods, this one involves the most risks.  It is less effective than any other method, as much for pregnancy as for STI’s.

Extra

If you want to learn more, you can go to these websites: