Fertility Awareness

How it works:

This is one of the most difficult birth control methods to use correctly. Your periods must be very regular for this method to work. Also known as natural family planning or rhythm method, the fertility awareness method prevents pregnancy by tracking your menstrual cycle and avoiding sex or using another birth control method during the fertile period surrounding ovulation, about 12 days every month.  For most people, the fertility awareness method is 76-88% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Perks:

  • Hormone free

  • No prescription or doctor visit required

  • Can stop using it on your own

Drawbacks:

  • Hard to use correctly

  • Your periods must be regular for it to work 

  • Less effective than other birth control methods

  • Requires daily tracking of fertility signs

  • Doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)