Birth Control:  Natural Family Planning

Natural family planning, (sometimes known as "the rhythm method" or charting fertility) is used by women who are opposed to, or don't want to use, other contraceptive options. Natural family planning requires commitment, education, and practice.

To effectively use natural family planning, you must be willing to regularly and consistently chart the signs of fertility throughout your monthly cycle including checking basel body temperature daily and charting the appearance and consistency of cervical mucus. It requires the cooperation of partners who don't mind engaging in abstinence during "unsafe" times of the month.

Generally, the chaotic lifestyle of college students make this a most difficult contraceptive choice due to the regularity required.

This would not be an effective method for you and your partner to use if

• you have more than one sex partner
• your menstrual cycle is irregular
• you or your partner are not willing to engage in abstinence during unsafe times or to use a barrier method during those times
• you have a sexually transmitted infection or regular, vaginal discharges
• you are on medication that might affect your body temperature or vaginal mucus secretions
• you cannot keep regular, consistent records

Your healthcare provider can help you decide whether this would be an effective method for you. Talk with one of Gannett's clinicians or a Clinical Counselor to learn more about this option.