Periodic abstinence: A group of methods that are based on avoiding sexual intercourse during the fertile time (time when a woman can conceive.) A woman's fertile time is identified through observing, recording and interpreting natural signs and symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle. These methods include the standard days method, calendar (rhythm) method, cervical mucus (or ovulation) method, and basal body temperature method.
Withdrawal (coitus interruptus): A method where sexual intercourse is interrupted and the penis is withdrawn from the vagina before ejaculation.
How do natural methods of family planning work? (mechanism of action)
They prevent sperm from uniting with an egg by avoiding intercourse around the time of ovulation or by withdrawing the penis from the vagina before ejaculation.
For whom are natural methods of family planning appropriate?
Couples willing and motivated to learn how to observe, record and interpret the woman's fertility signs
Couples who accept the potential for unintended pregnancy
Couples with no/little access to modern contraceptive methods
Couples with religious/philosophical reasons not to use other methods
Women with regular menstrual cycles
Women unable to use other contraceptive methods
Men willing to practice withdrawal
Advantages
Have no medical side effects
Immediate return to fertility
Free and readily available
Use increases knowledge of female reproductive physiology
Use may improve communication between partners
Disadvantages
High failure rate
Require high motivation and ability to follow instructions
Require partner's cooperation
Couple practicing periodic abstinence must abstain from intercourse for a significant period of time every month
No protection from STIs/HIV
May be difficult to detect a woman's fertile period (close to menarche, close to menopause, during breastfeeding, or in women with irregular cycles)
Follow-up and counseling
Initial counseling involves detailed instructions on how to identify the fertile period. Provide follow-up/additional counseling:
Anytime client has questions or concerns
Every visit (correct use of the method should be reinforced and client's satisfaction with the method reviewed)
