There are many methods of birth control, but there are few methods that do not require extraneous hormones such as pills, patches, or rings or contraceptive devices like diaphragms and condoms. The rhythm method is one of those methods.
Time Frame
The menstrual cycle of the typical female is 28 days long. Day one is the day her period starts. In females with 28 day cycles, an egg is released from an ovary at day 14 in the process of ovulation. Between days 14 and 17, approximately, a woman is fertile. Women wishing to become pregnant that have intercourse on these days will have a good chance of conception. Avoiding intercourse during these days is known as the rhythm method of birth control.
Features
The rhythm method typically has a success rate of about 75%. The success of the rhythm method is highly dependent on the female knowing how long her menstrual cycle is. For instance, a woman with a menstrual cycle that is 31 days long can still use the rhythm method, but she must know when she is ovulating for it to be entirely effective. A woman must also always be aware of where she is in her menstrual cycle.
Considerations
Sperm cells can live in the female reproductive tract for two to three days. This makes it important to not only avoid having sexual intercourse on day 14 of the menstrual cycle, but to also avoid it for the two to three days prior to day 14.
Detection
A woman's basal body temperature increases slightly during ovulation. Recording body temperature first thing in the morning daily can help a woman keep track of when she is ovulating. There are other symptoms that may occur such as increased cervical mucus and ovarian cramping during ovulation.
Prevention/Solution
Because sexual intercourse should be avoided for nearly an entire week during every month if the rhythm method is used, other forms of birth control can be used during this time. Condoms, diaphragms, spermicides, or a combination of any of these can effectively reduce the chance of pregnancy when used for intercourse during ovulation.
Tags: menstrual cycle, birth control, during ovulation, rhythm method, rhythm method