 |
|||||
 |
|||||
|
|||||
|
|||||
|
|||||
|
|
Home > Safer Sex > Rhythm Method The rhythm method of birth control is a method of preventing conception without the use of barrier or chemical methods, such as condoms or birth control pills. Since a woman can only become pregnant when she ovulates, conception can theoretically be avoided by abstaining from sexual contact during the few days following ovulation. Women are usually fertile during a four- or five-day period approximately two weeks before their period. The day that ovulation occurs can be also be approximated through various other signs of ovulation, such as a slight increase in vaginal temperature and the consistency cervical mucus. Moreover, since sperm may live in the vagina for up to three days, as can an unfertilized egg, abstinence should be practiced for at least five days before and after ovulation. This would work perfectly if everyone ovulated exactly on schedule and the signs of ovulation were impossible to miss. Unfortunately, this is rarely the case. It is possible for a woman to ovulate, and thus conceive, at any time during the month. It is most likely that she will ovulate two weeks before her period although it is not certain. It is also possible that a woman will ovulate more than once during a month. The likelihood of an irregular cycle is increased when a woman is under stress, not eating well, or not sleeping enough, as is the case with many college students. Sickness may be mistaken for signs of ovulation as well. Furthermore, the rhythm method does not protect against STIs or HIV. For these reasons, SSIS does not recommend that college students use the rhythm method as their only method of birth control. We advise that additional safer sex methods be used. If you want to learn more about natural contraception, please see a physician. Sources: |
|||
|
|||||