Abstinence (or not engaging in sexual intercourse at all) has probably been the most im­portant factor in controlling fertility throughout history. However, over the last few years, there is some uncertainty about what “abstinence” really means. Although some would define abstinence as refraining from all sexual behaviors, including masturbation, others might define it as abstaining […]

Withdrawal is another acceptable method of birth control for those who cannot use an­other method for religious reasons. In addition, it may be a good method for couples who do not mind becoming pregnant, it is free, doesn’t require any devices, and it is better than not using any method at all. Disadvantages Withdrawal provides […]

Natural family planning provides no protection from STIs and restricts spontaneity. In addition, this method has low effectiveness rates, takes time and commitment to learn, and requires several cycles of records before it can be used reliably. In addition, women who have irregular cycles may have difficulty in interpreting their charts. Cross-Cultural Use What makes […]

Effectiveness rates for natural family planning range from 75% (typical use) to 99% (per­fect use). The majority of failures with this method are due to couples engaging in in­tercourse too close to ovulation. In addition, a woman may ovulate earlier or later than usual because of diet, stress, or alcohol use. This method is best […]

With natural family planning (NFP; or the symptothermal method), a woman charts her menstrual periods by taking a daily basal body temperature (BBT) and checking cervical mucus to determine when she ovulates. During ovulation, she abstains from sex­ual intercourse. Although this may also be referred to as the rhythm method, generally the rhythm method does […]

Natural methods of contraception do not alter any physiological function. They include natural family planning and fertility awareness, withdrawal, and abstinence. IUDs/IUSs offer no protection from STIs, carry the risk of uterine perforation, may cause irregular bleeding patterns and spotting, and require painful insertion and removal pro­cedures. The ParaGuard IUD also can increase the amount […]

IUDs and IUSs have been found to create a low-grade infection in the uterus, which may interfere with sperm mobility and block sperm from passing into the Fallopian tubes and joining with an ovum. The IUS also time-releases progesterone into the lining of the uterus, which alters the lining, making implantation difficult. IUDs/IUSs must be […]

As of 2004, there was only one intrauterine device (IUD) available in the United States, the ParaGard Copper T (the Progestasert IUD was discontinued in 2001). The ParaGard Copper T can be left in place for 12 years. In 2000, the FDA approved the Mirena, an intrauterine system (IUS). This IUS is different from traditional […]

Effectiveness rates for spermicides range from 71% (typical use) to 82% (perfect use). Foam is generally considered more effective than jelly, cream, film, or suppositories. However, the most successful type of spermicide is one that a couple feels comfortable with and uses consistently. Advantages Spermicides can be purchased without a physician’s prescription, and they are […]