The rhythm method is a popular birth control method that has been in practice for about as long as humans have been recording these practices. It is a natural method, requiring no drugs or devices to prevent pregnancy. For this reason, many with personal, medical or religious aversions to birth control use the rhythm method.
Method
The rhythm involves getting familiar with your menstrual cycle. You need to determine your ovulation days, through the calendar, your cervical mucus, your basal temperature, your physical and emotional state and other indicators. Instead of having intercourse during these times to get pregnant, you avoid intercourse around the days of ovulation. In this way, you strive to not let your egg come in contact with any sperm and fertilize.
Confusion
The rhythm method has a number of names and may involve a number of ovulation indicators. Some who use the term “rhythm method” are referring only to checking the calendar to indicate ovulation, which is the least effective method. Others chart bodily indicators to determine ovulation, a more reliable method. The rhythm method is also called fertility awareness or natural family planning.
Why To Choose It
The rhythm method is a useful method for women in a committed relationship. During the ovulation time of her menstrual cycle, the couple can decide if they want to use a barrier method, such as a condom, or refrain altogether. In such a relationship, both the partners are committed to the method. They will thoroughly educate themselves on the topic, which promises the most effectiveness. The method also keeps the couple aware of her monthly cycle. Once they are ready to conceive, they will be aware of the ovulation and most fertile days.
Why Not To Choose It
The rhythm method is not very effective for women who do not or can not commit themselves to following it flawlessly. Two months of recording cycles is best before determining average ovulation days. Women who are not committed for that long or can’t wait that long should not use this method. Women with irregular cycles should not use the rhythm method, since they can not rely on a single ovulation day from month to month.
Roll of the Dice
The Palo Alto Medical Foundation and the University of Illinois McKinley Health Center both report that the rhythm method prevents pregnancy 75 percent of the time. This may be increased with proper education or the use of a barrier such as a condom. Talk with a doctor or health care professional before using this method.
Photo Credit
- couple-playing image by JulianMay.co.uk from Fotolia.com
