Fertility Awareness Methods
Updated:Fertility Awareness Methods (FAMs) are a group of natural family planning techniques used to track a woman's menstrual cycle to determine fertile and infertile periods. These methods rely on observing and recording various physiological signs of fertility, such as basal body temperature, cervical mucus changes, and menstrual cycle patterns. FAMs can be used either to avoid pregnancy or to increase the chances of conception.
Additional Information
There are several types of FAMs, including the Calendar Method, the Basal Body Temperature Method, and the Cervical Mucus Method. Many people combine these methods for increased accuracy, known as the Symptothermal Method. While FAMs can be highly effective when used correctly, they require consistent effort, careful tracking, and a good understanding of one's body. It's important to note that FAMs do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Examples
A couple using the Symptothermal Method to avoid pregnancy by abstaining from intercourse during the woman's fertile window
A woman tracking her cervical mucus changes to identify her most fertile days when trying to conceive