What is the Rhythm Method?

The rhythm method, also known as "fertility awareness," is a method of birth control that uses the menstrual cycle to predict your most fertile time of the month - that is when you are most likely to become pregnant. Once you have identified your most fertile time you simply don't have sex or use a barrier method of birth control during that time period.

How does it work?

Fertility awareness birth control methods are based on the fact that:

• sperm may live in the female reproductive tract for up to 7 days
• the female egg lives for only a day
• fertilization may occur even days after intercourse
• "safe days" occur 2 days after ovulation and continue until your next period

There are several methods of determining which are the most fertile days of your cycle; a family planning clinic or your doctor will suggest one of several methods to help you identify the safest time during your cycle for having intercourse. These include the:

Calendar Rhythm Method - This method requires that you keep track of your cycle for a few months to determine your own individual pattern of ovulation. The pattern will help you keep track of when is most "dangerous" to have sexual intercourse.

Basal Body Temperature Method - This method involves keeping track of your body temperature so that you can tell when you are ovulating. Body temperature rises two days prior to ovulation.

Ovulation Method - This method requires you to check your cervical mucus to determine the time of ovulation.

Symptothermal Method - A combination of the first two methods.

Ovulation Predictor Kits - Available at the drugstore, these kits are used to test your urine to identify hormones that indicate ovulation is about to occur.

How effective is it?

No method guarantees 100% efficacy but the rhythm method may be trickier than some. You should choose a fertility awareness method only if:

• you have a partner who is willing to cooperate
• you are aware of and have a regular, steady monthly cycle
• you are willing to invest the time and effort required to learn about fertility awareness methods
• you and your partner are prepared to accept the fact that protection against pregnancy is not perfect

Are there side effects?

No.