27th June 2023

Natural Family Planning

Natural contraceptive methods are less reliable than other methods but are widely acceptable and can be effective when taught to couples by trained providers. Fertility indicators are monitored during a woman’s cycle to prompt a change in sexual behaviours to prevent pregnancy. Fertility awareness methods (FAM) rely on monitoring signs such as basal body temperature, consistency of cervical secretions and changes in the cervix. It requires a woman to have a regular menstrual cycle to allow accurate prediction of ovulation. The lactational amenorrhea method (LAM) relies on a woman being less than six months postpartum, breastfeeding at least 85% of baby’s intake and complete amenorrhea; lactation stops ovulation by delaying gonadotrophin release.