The rhythm method is a type of birth control that uses a woman's menstrual history to predict ovulation. During the days that a woman is most likely to ovulate, she and her partner can abstain from sex or use a barrier method, such as a condom, to prevent pregnancy. This method is based on the theory that ovulation occurs about 14 days before the next menstrual period.
Reliability
Reliability of this type of birth control depends on whether it is used correctly without fail. According to combined information from the Mayo Clinic and the Nemours Foundation, the rhythm method is 75 percent to 87 percent effective at preventing pregnancy.
Features
According to the Nemours Foundations, you can track ovulation dates by calculating your fertile times on a calendar, using a basal body thermometer to measure temperature fluctuations and using kits that test for ovulation. Using a calendar to calculate your fertile days is complicated. According to the Mayo Clinic, the calendar method involves recording the length of your menstrual cycle, identifying the first day you are most likely to be fertile and calculating the last day of your fertile period.
Time Frame
According to the Mayo Clinic, you must record at least eight menstrual cycles while abstaining from sex or using a barrier method before relying on the rhythm method as a birth control choice. According to the Nemours Foundation, the fertile time of your menstrual cycle lasts about six to nine days.
Considerations
According to the Mayo Clinic, sperm can remain alive in the vagina for three to five days and are able to fertilize an egg during this time, which can prolong your fertile time. Learning how to properly use this type of birth control requires in-depth education by a physician or nurse, and you may need to attend a class.
Warning
This birth control method is not recommended for women with menstrual cycles less than 27 days and those who have irregular periods. This type of birth control does not protect a person against sexually transmitted diseases, such as gonorrhea, syphilis and chlamydia. The use of a barrier method of birth control is needed to protect against sexually transmitted diseases if you expose yourself to at-risk behavior, such as having intercourse with multiple partners.
References
- Introduction to Maternity and Pediatric Nursing: Fourth Edition; Gloria Leifer, MA, RN; 2002
- Nemours Foundation: The Rhythm Method
- Mayo Clinic: Calendar Birth Control Method
