Your choices: a guide to contraception1

There are a wide range of contraceptive choices available but perhaps you aren't aware of, or fully understand, all of them?
This guide aims to strip away the jargon to show you the different contraception options available. You might be surprised at the choices out there and want to take a fresh look at which one might suit you and your lifestyle best.

The Natural Method

What is it?

Natural family planning involves working out when you are most likely to get pregnant, and then avoiding sex during these times.

How does it work?

A doctor or nurse will teach you how to observe your body's natural signs and fertility indicators so that you can predict when you are most likely to get pregnant. The main ways to do this are:

  • Working out how long your menstrual cycle lasts
  • Recording changes in body temperature
  • Changes in the mucus that your cervix produces

How effective is it?

It can be up to 98% effective, but you need to be very disciplined when following this method and you'll need to keep written records. Also there are many things that can disrupt your cycle (e.g. stress, illness or medication).

Advantages

  • The method is totally natural and does not involve chemicals
  • Can be used to plan or prevent a pregnancy
  • Enables a couple to be independent and in control of their fertility
  • It is inexpensive, convenient and free of all side effects

Disadvantages

  • Requires keeping a daily record
  • It takes between three and six menstrual cycles before you can learn the process fully
  • Will involve avoiding sex at some times during the month
  • Only suitable for women with regular menstrual cycles
  • Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections

Can anyone use it?

Yes , this approach can be used by anyone, although overall effectiveness depends on your age and the regularity of your menstrual cycle.

References

  1. http://www.fpa.org.uk