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  • Title: Natural family planning.
    Author: Davis MS.
    Journal: NAACOGS Clin Issu Perinat Womens Health Nurs; 1992; 3(2):280-90. PubMed ID: 1596436.
    Abstract:
    Natural family planning includes the calendar (rhythm), basal body temperature, ovulation (mucus), and sympto-thermal methods. Reliability of such methods often is underestimated, but effectiveness of various methods has been reported. Correct understanding and use of proper techniques, primarily abstinence during fertile periods, is imperative for effectiveness. New methods being studied may heighten awareness of fertile times and shorten required periods of abstinence or use of back-up methods. Fertility-aware couples can use natural family planning (NFP) to prevent pregnancy or to time intercourse so conception occurs. Fertility awareness also helps in diagnosing and treating premenstrual syndrome, infertility, and abnormal patterns. NFP can be 89% effective (comparable to that of barrier methods) when couples are properly trained and strictly follow NFP techniques. The rhythm or calendar method consists of numerical calculations based on previous menstrual cycles. Menstrual cycle charting involves keeping records of the last 6-12 cycles to predict future cycles. It is undependable during postpartum, lactation, and at the end of the childbearing years, however. The basal body temperature (BBT) method includes women measuring their temperature every morning before rising. A fall in BBT usually comes 12-24 hours before ovulation. Examination of the cervical mucus also helps to identify fertile days. Mucus during fertile days is clear, plentiful, elastic, thin, and slippery and forms a thin strand at least 6 cm long when placed between 2 fingers. These qualities facilitate sperm mobility through the cervix. The sympto-thermal method is a combination of the previous methods. It also takes into consideration other signs and symptoms of fertility such as intermenstrual pain. Breast feeding also provides some protection against pregnancy but can be unreliable. A major disadvantage of NFP is other methods are more effective. Some advantages include it being immediately reversible, safe, and increases fertility and infertility awareness. If a couple is interested in using NFP to prevent pregnancy, health providers or counselors must make the time to conduct the extensive training. NFP success hinges on user's motivation and their ability to interpret signs and symptoms of fertility.
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