Natural methods

What is it? These methods involve various techniques to find out when a woman is at her most fertile, so that extra care can be taken or sex can be avoided altogether during these times.

Advantages:
• Natural alternative to other methods of contraception 
• There are no hormones involved so will not effect levels of fertility

Considerations:
• Requires a significant level of motivation and a clear understanding of how to monitor fertility 
• Needs to be learnt from a family planning teacher and can take time to understand 
• Does not take into account fluctuations in the menstrual cycle 
• May interfere with the spontaneity of sex 
• Only condoms help prevent sexually transmitted infections – natural methods alone offer no protection

Available from: Fertility indicators which are used with these methods are available from pharmacists

Effectiveness: Varies depending on correct understanding and use