Before you jump to conclusions, let me clarify that I wouldn’t advocate the Fertility Awareness Method (FAM), also referred to as Natural Family Planning, for everyone. It requires a deep understanding, meticulous adherence, and a committed partnership, as it does not offer protection against STDs. However, for those ready to fully commit, FAM can be an incredibly effective and empowering birth control option.
I’ve been utilizing FAM for 20 years, starting when my partner, Mark, and I began cohabitating. This method effectively prevented pregnancy during the first decade of our marriage. When we decided to expand our family, it also guided us in pinpointing the optimal timing for conception.
Over these two decades, we experienced just one unplanned pregnancy, which ended in an early miscarriage. At that time, I was nursing our toddler, and I attribute the mishap to my fluctuating hormones and a more relaxed approach to the method, as I was open to the possibility of becoming pregnant. Still, I’d say that’s a rather impressive record. Research supports my experience: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) indicates that 1 to 5 out of 100 women may conceive in the first year with perfect adherence to FAM. Under average use, the rate increases, with 12 to 24 out of 100 women becoming pregnant in their first year.
What Does Adopting FAM Entail?
Adopting FAM requires dedication. What exactly does that entail? The method comprises three main components: observing cervical mucus, tracking basal body temperature (BBT), and using the standard days method, which involves keeping a calendar of your menstrual cycle. While you can use these methods separately, combining them yields the best results.
Cervical mucus observation may sound unappealing, but it involves monitoring changes in your cervical fluids to identify when you’re most fertile. Familiarizing yourself with these changes can be empowering, enhancing your awareness of your body. With time, you’ll notice a pattern, such as an increase in slippery mucus during ovulation. During this fertile phase, it’s best to avoid intercourse or use a barrier method.
Tracking your BBT can also be intriguing, though it requires daily diligence. You’ll need a basal body thermometer, which is quite affordable and accessible. This method involves recording the slight rise in your body temperature that occurs post-ovulation. While it doesn’t indicate that ovulation has occurred on its own, it helps confirm that ovulation has taken place, allowing you to know when it’s safe to have unprotected intercourse.
There’s much more to explore, including strategies for timing intercourse to prevent pregnancy and guidance for managing irregular cycles. For an in-depth understanding, I highly recommend Taking Charge of Your Fertility by Toni Weschler, a comprehensive resource on fertility awareness. Additionally, you can find helpful charts and apps to track your data and interpret your cycles. For those seeking personalized support, consider working with a Fertility Awareness Method coach for tailored guidance.
Initially, it might seem complex, but once you delve into it, the process becomes intuitive and even enjoyable. You may find yourself becoming quite passionate about fertility awareness, as I have, often sharing insights about my cervical mucus with my partner (he’s quite tolerant).
What I cherish most about FAM is how it fosters a deeper connection with my body, menstrual cycles, and sexuality, all while preventing pregnancy without resorting to hormonal contraception or barrier methods that haven’t suited me. It’s a win-win.
Once again, I emphasize that this method demands unwavering commitment. If you’re ready to engage fully, I encourage you to dive in. When practiced correctly, it’s remarkably effective and empowering.
Additional Resources
For those interested in additional resources on at-home insemination methods, you may find helpful information at this link. Furthermore, Make A Mom offers insightful guidance on artificial insemination kits. And for those seeking support on female infertility, Drugs.com is an excellent resource to consider.
Summary
The Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) has served as my primary form of birth control for 20 years, providing me with a profound understanding of my body and cycles. While it requires serious commitment and knowledge, FAM can be a highly effective and empowering way to manage fertility without hormonal methods. For anyone considering this path, resources like Taking Charge of Your Fertility can be invaluable, alongside personalized coaching options.