Natural Family Planning (Periodic Abstinence, Sympto-Thermal, Billings/Ovulation Method, Basal Body Temperature)

What Is It?

To use Natural Family Planning or NFP, a couple voluntarily avoids sexual intercourse during the fertile phase of the woman's cycle (time when the woman can become pregnant) or has intercourse during the fertile phase to achieve pregnancy.
There are five types of NFP: Calendar (Rhythm) Method, Basal Body Temperature, Cervical Mucus Method, CycleBeads, and Symptothermal Method. 
For additional information and training contact a family planning clinic nearest you.

How Does It Work?

Users abstain from sex on fertile days to prevent egg and sperm from meeting. Fertilization does not occur.

How Is It Used?

Instruction from a qualified NFP instructor or clinician is recommended. Observing and charting daily signs of fertility or ovulation (release of the egg). Basal body temperature (BBT) method: the temperature is taken and charted each day. Cervical mucus method: the cervical mucus is evaluated for signs of ovulation. Sympto-thermal method: combines BBT and cervical mucus methods, along with checking position of the cervix.

How Well Does It Work?

Typical use: 81%. Perfect use: 91-99%.

What Are Its Main Advantages?

No health risks or side effects caused by method. Accepted by most religions. Can be used to determine fertile days when pregnancy is desired. Responsibility can be shared by couple.

What Are Some Possible Problems?

Have to abstain from intercourse on fertile days (back-up method can be used on fertile days, if couple chooses not to abstain). Temptation to take risks may occur. Care is needed to keep records and observe signs. Fertility signs and symptoms may be difficult for some women to identify.