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Natural methods of contraception are based on a woman understanding her body well enough to avoid intercourse at her most fertile times during the month. The Temperature, Rhythm, and Ovulation (or Billings) Methods are the most common methods, however, none are very effective and they require more motivation and discipline than other forms of contraception.
The Temperature Method relies on a woman taking her oral, rectal, or vaginal temperature each morning before getting up and before eating or drinking anything. Around the time of ovulation the temperature rises by about 0.3 degrees Celsius or 0.05 degrees Fahrenheit and remains there for about 14 days of the cycle. There is no warning of ovulation with this method, so it is often difficult to be sure of the fertile time. Intercourse must be avoided until the temperature has been elevated for three days.
The Ovulation or Billings Method is based on the variation of vaginal mucus during the menstrual cycle in parallel with hormonal changes. As ovulation approaches in most women, the cervix produces a slippery, wet mucus much like the raw white of an egg. This lubricative mucus allows the sperm to move more freely and increases the sperm survival rate. On the last day, when the mucus is clear and stretchy, fertility is at its peak. In the Billings guidelines, only half of the days in the cycle are not available for intercourse. Abstinence is required during menstruation and for seven to ten days in mid cycle.
The Rhythm Method is an out-dated method. It should not be used in isolation. The Rhythm Method can be combined with The Temperature Method and The Ovulation or Billings Method. The Rhythm Method works on the fact that ovulation occurs on a single day, ten to sixteen days before menstruation and sperm can live for at least 3 days and possibly longer in fertile mucus. Even women with consistent menstrual cycles suffer from fluctuations in their cycle and so this method is quite risky.
Where to go:
Counseling by a Midwife or other Health Care Provider, Health Worker or at a Family Planning Clinic is recommended as all of these methods require a high level of motivation, commitment and good communication between partners.
Side Effects:
There are no chemical side effects to natural contraception methods.
Advantages:
The advantage of natural methods is a better understanding of how a woman's body works. Natural methods cost nothing and are accessible.
Disadvantages:
Restrictions on or abstinence from intercourse may cause stress or anxiety in a relationship, although other activities, such as non-penetrative sex, are an alternative. Natural methods offer no protection from STDs. There is also an increased risk of pregnancy. It helps when both partners take an active part in natural contraception methods.
MoonDragon's Conception Information
The Conception Kit™ - Contents & Use
LINKS
MoonDragon's Contraception Methods Compared
MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Oral Contraceptives
MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Natural Methods of Birth Control
MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Fertility Cycle Basics
MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Herbal Birth Control
MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Lactational Amenorrhea Method
MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Withdrawal Method
Sister Zeus: What Men Need To Know About Fertility Awareness Methods
Sister Zeus's Fertility Awareness, Herbal Abortion, & Herbal Contraception
Natural Contraceptives by Elizabeth Burch, ND
Herbal Methods of Contraception & Abortion Links
Ovu-tec Fertility Detector for Visualizing Cervical Mucous
Sister Zeus: Determining Your Risk of Pregnancy
Sister Zeus: Basal Body Temp - In Determining Risk for Pregnancy
MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Total Abstinence
MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Natural Family Planning (NFP)
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