If you choose a natural birth control method, in order to be effective, you must be committed to this decision. These methods require discipline and self-control. It is also helpful that you are in a stable relationship where you and your partner can openly talk and cooperate with one another.
The withdrawal method also relies on complete self-control. You must have an exact sense of timing to withdraw your penis in time. This method is only 78% effective as birth control. About 22 out of 100 people who use withdrawal get pregnant every year — that’s about 1 in 5.
To be successful, you need to be willing to record and chart your fertility signs. Then, you (and your partner) must agree to not have sex (or to use backup birth control) when you ovulate, and for five days beforehand, as sperm can live in the reproductive tract for up to five days.
Fertility awareness methods include the Billings Method, the Symptothermal Method, and the Standard Days Method. You can also take advantage of Fertility iPhone Apps to help you track your body’s changes. Books like “Taking Charge of Your Fertility: The Definitive Guide to Natural Birth Control” can help explain how to practice natural family planning.
Fertility awareness methods are only 76% to 88% effective: that means 12 to 24 out of 100 couples who use these methods will still get pregnant each year.
You should not rely on this method for more than six months or if you have gotten your period since giving birth. The lactational amenorrhea method is only effective if you feed your baby at least every four hours during the day and every six hours at night with both breasts.
