How they work:
- Natural methods involve observing various signs and changes in the body that indicate fertile or infertile periods in the cycle.
- Using a natural method requires learning about your menstrual cycle and observing the different signs your body gives you. It is strongly recommended that you take a training course to fully understand the intricacies of these methods and increase their effectiveness. Combining several observations improves their effectiveness.
Advantages
- There are no chemical products in the body.
- They preserve the woman’s natural cycle.
- They are free or inexpensive.
- They help prevent a pregnancy.
- The partner can get involved by making observations and by using protection during fertile periods.
Disadvantages
- They require a period of adaptation.
- They do not protect against sexually transmitted and/or blood-borne infections (STBBIs).
- They can be less effective than other methods if they are not followed accurately.
- They require that you monitor your monthly fertility cycle and other signs of fertility in your body.
- They require the partner’s cooperation and commitment.
- Natural methods are contraindicated if observing the body’s signs is not done comfortably.
- During fertile periods, it is strongly advised to use an additional method (e.g., condoms) if you wish to prevent pregnancy.
Many natural methods exist
We have chosen to present two methods that have a good rate of efficacy. To prevent pregnancy, you should simultaneously observe different body signs to increase the effectiveness of the contraceptive. It is recommended to follow training to properly use natural methods.
Billings
This method involves observing various changes and signs in the body that vary from day to day (cervical texture, mucus, vaginal sensations, etc.). One of the main observations concerns cervical mucus (vaginal discharge), which changes in texture, appearance, color, quantity, elasticity, and sensation depending on whether you are in your fertile or infertile periods.
During fertile periods, the cervical mucus is slippery, increasingly transparent, stringy, and stretches. The woman feels wet.
During infertile periods, the cervical mucus is opaque, pasty, does not stretch, or is completely absent.
The cervix is also a good indicator of fertile and infertile periods.
During fertile periods, its texture resembles that of your lips. It is tender and slightly open.
During infertile periods, it closes and becomes firm. Its texture feels like the tip of your nose.
Symptothermal
Instructions
Trainings are offered in Quebec and in several other areas of the world.
To find out more about this method and the trainings offered, consult the Sérena Quebec website on natural birth planning (Séréna Québec, planification naturelle des naissances) at: www.serena.ca
CAUTION!
The basal body temperature must be taken after at least 1 hour of total inactivity (for example, before getting up in the morning). Several factors, such as stress, illness, getting up at night, etc., can affect the temperature and make it difficult to observe (monitor).