Wyoming Health Council
PH (307) 632-3640
TF (800) 584-9192
FX (307) 632-3611
 

Natural Family Planning
Symptothermal Method
Basal Body Temperature Method

What is it?
- a variety of methods that help to detect the fertile days of the menstrual cycle
- abstinence from sex during fertile days ("unsafe days")

What 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%

Does it reduce risk for HIV/AIDS and STD's?
- does not reduce risk for HIV/AIDS or STDs
- using a male, latex condom reduces the risk

What are the advantages?
- no health risks or side effects caused by method
- accepted by most religions
- can be used to determined fertile days when pregnancy is desired
- responsibility can be shared by couple

What are the disadvantages?
- 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

What if I have sex and don't use birth control?
Did you know that for 72 hours after sex, you can take emergency contraceptive pills to avoid becoming pregnant? AND for 5 to 7 days after sex, you can have an IUD put in, so you won’t become pregnant? Not all clinicians know about this. If you want more information, contact a Family Planning clinic near you or visit www.go2planb.com.  Some of these sources of help are free. PLAN B is the emergency contraceptive pill that causes the least nausea, the least vomiting, and has the lowest failure rate.

Which Contraceptive is Right for You?

Your Options
> Birth Control Shot
> Birth Control Implant
> EC - Emergency Contraceptive Pills
> Female/Male Condom
> IUD's
> Natural Family Planning
> The Mini-Pill
> The Ring
> The Patch
> The Pill
> Tubal Sterilization
> Vaginal Spermicides
> Vasectomy



 
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