The Down Low on Natural Birth Control Methods

Natural birth control methods are becoming increasingly popular among women as they provide an alternative to hormonal birth control methods. These methods offer a wide range of benefits such as understanding menstrual cycle and fertility, avoiding side effects, and being non-hormonal.

More and more women are choosing natural birth control methods as they provide an effective and safe way to prevent pregnancy. There are many benefits of using natural birth control, including not messing with synthetic hormones. Natural birth control methods such as Fertility Awareness Method and Lactational Amenorrhea Method also provide additional health benefits. Read on to learn more about natural birth control options and to find the one that would work best for you!

Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) of Birth Control

FAM involves tracking a woman’s menstrual cycle and identifying her fertile days. This can be done through methods such as monitoring basal body temperature, cervical mucus, and ovulation prediction kits. The benefit of FAM is that it is a highly effective method of birth control when used correctly, and it also allows a woman to understand her menstrual cycle and fertility. Additionally, it can help in identifying reproductive health concerns such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and irregular cycles which can be addressed with the guidance of a healthcare provider. It also promotes mindfulness and intimacy between partners.

Basal Body Temperature

Basal body temperature tracking for birth control involves taking your temperature every morning before getting out of bed, using a basal body thermometer. This temperature should be recorded and tracked on a chart. A slight increase in basal body temperature indicates ovulation has occurred and the fertile window has passed, allowing for intercourse without the risk of pregnancy.

Cervical Mucus

Cervical mucus observation for birth control involves paying attention to the consistency and quality of cervical mucus. During fertile days, cervical mucus will become stretchy, clear and wet, making it easier for sperm to travel to the egg. On infertile days, cervical mucus will be thicker, cloudy and less stretchy. By charting these changes and observing the cervical mucus, one can determine their fertile and infertile days.

Ovulation Prediction Kits

Ovulation prediction kits are tools that help identify a woman’s fertile days by detecting the presence of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the urine, which indicates ovulation is about to occur. These kits can be purchased over-the-counter and typically involve using a test strip or digital device to measure the LH levels in urine.

Barrier Methods of Birth Control

Barrier methods such as condoms and diaphragms physically block the sperm from reaching the egg. These methods are non-hormonal and do not have any side effects. You can also use condoms to provide protection against sexually transmitted infections.

Condoms

Condoms are the most commonly used form of birth control because they’re highly effective. They are a barrier method of birth control that are placed over the penis before intercourse to prevent pregnancy by blocking sperm from reaching the egg. It’s important to use condoms every time during intercourse to ensure maximum protection.

Diaphragms

A diaphragm is a small, dome-shaped device that is inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix and physically block sperm from reaching the egg. It is used in conjunction with spermicidal cream or jelly. A diaphragm can be inserted up to two hours before intercourse and must be left in place for at least six hours after intercourse. It is available by prescription from a healthcare provider and must be fitted for the correct size.

The Copper IUD

Copper IUDs (intrauterine devices) are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. They work by releasing copper ions which creates an hostile environment for the sperm, preventing fertilization. They can be left in place for up to 10 years and are over 99% effective. Copper IUDs are a non-hormonal option and are suitable for women who cannot use hormonal birth control.

Withdrawal

Withdrawal is a method in which the man withdraws his penis from the vagina before ejaculation. The benefit of this method is that it is simple and does not require any additional products or devices. However, it is not as effective as other methods and relies on the man’s ability to control his ejaculation. The “pull-out method”, as it’s sometimes called, can be made more pleasurable by incorporating communication and consent between partners, setting boundaries and using other forms of sexual stimulation.

Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM)

The Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) is a form of natural birth control that utilizes the hormones present during breastfeeding to suppress ovulation and prevent pregnancy. It is highly effective for the first six months postpartum, as long as a woman is exclusively breastfeeding, has not yet had a menstrual period, and there is no other form of birth control. The benefit of LAM is that it is a highly effective method of birth control for women who are breastfeeding and it also provides additional health benefits for both mother and baby. Breastfeeding releases hormones that help the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size, reduces the risk of ovarian and breast cancer, and may help in losing postpartum weight. Additionally, breastfeeding also provides additional health benefits for the baby, such as boosting the baby’s immune system and reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

It’s important to note that natural birth control methods can be less effective than hormonal methods, and it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine which option may be best for you. Additionally, it’s important to remember that no birth control method is 100% effective and using condoms is also recommended to protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Using Menstrual Cups & Menstrual Discs with Natural Birth Control

Menstrual cups and discs are a great option for those who use natural birth control methods. These products do not contain any hormones or chemicals. Both cups and discs are safe to use with copper IUDs. They also have the added benefit of being eco-friendly and cost-effective – they last for 10 years! Menstrual Cups and Discs can help you better know your personal anatomy. They also enable you to know exactly how light or heavy your menstrual flow is. Know your body. Be able to better manage your natural birth control! SHOP CUPS & DISCS NOW!
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