For the past 20 years, I have relied on the Fertility Awareness Method (FAM), also known as Natural Family Planning, to manage my reproductive health. Before you jump to conclusions, I want to clarify that FAM isn’t suitable for everyone. It requires a deep understanding of your body, a strong commitment to following guidelines, and a stable relationship, as it does not offer protection against STDs.
However, for those who meet these criteria, FAM can be an incredibly effective birth control option. It can be used independently or alongside other methods, avoiding the complications and side effects often associated with hormonal contraceptives.
I first adopted FAM when my partner and I began cohabiting, and it successfully prevented pregnancy for the first decade of our marriage. When we decided to start a family, FAM guided us in timing intercourse for conception. Over these years, we only encountered one unexpected pregnancy, which ended in an early miscarriage. At that time, I was nursing, and I attribute the mishap to hormonal fluctuations, along with a more relaxed approach to the method since I was open to the idea of becoming pregnant. Given the circumstances, I consider this a commendable track record.
The statistics affirm my experience—according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), 1 to 5 out of 100 women may conceive in their first year of perfect use of FAM. With average use, that number increases to 12 to 24 women per 100. Ultimately, the key lies in your commitment to the method, which not everyone is prepared for.
What Does Following FAM Entail?
The method incorporates three primary components: monitoring cervical mucus, tracking basal body temperature (BBT), and the “standard days” approach, which involves marking your cycle on a calendar. You can choose to practice each method separately or combine them for greater effectiveness.
Cervical mucus observation involves noting changes in your cervical fluids to identify your fertile window. While it may seem unappealing, becoming familiar with these changes can empower you and enhance your understanding of your body. Over time, you’ll notice a pattern, especially as slippery mucus increases during ovulation. During this peak fertility phase, it’s advisable to either abstain from intercourse or use a barrier method.
Tracking your basal body temperature can also provide valuable insights, although it requires daily diligence. A special basal thermometer is necessary, but they are widely available and affordable. You’ll be monitoring a slight increase in temperature that occurs after ovulation. While this alone won’t confirm ovulation, it does help indicate when it’s safe to engage in intercourse.
There’s much more to FAM, including strategies for timing intercourse to prevent pregnancy, coping with irregular cycles, and more. A highly recommended resource is “Taking Charge of Your Fertility” by Toni Weschler, a comprehensive guide to fertility awareness. You can also find charts and apps to assist in tracking and interpreting your data. Additionally, there are FAM coaches available to provide personalized guidance, which is a fantastic option for those who want extra support.
Though it may seem complex initially, FAM becomes intuitive with practice. Many find it engaging—so engaging that you might start sharing details about your cervical mucus with your partner, just like I do! What I appreciate most about FAM is how it fosters a strong connection with my body, my cycles, and my sexuality, all while successfully preventing pregnancy without hormonal interventions, which I have never tolerated well.
To reiterate, this method demands unwavering commitment. If you’re ready to take the plunge, I assure you that when done correctly, FAM works effectively and empowers you as a fertility expert.
For further information, you might find it helpful to explore this excellent resource on the IVF process. If you’re curious about home insemination kits, check out this comprehensive kit for intracervical insemination. Also, if you’re looking into payment options for fertility services, visit this authority on the topic.
In summary, the Fertility Awareness Method has served as a reliable birth control method for me over the past two decades, offering empowerment and a deep connection with my body. It requires dedication, but for those willing to commit, it can be a powerful tool for family planning.