The rhythm method involves avoiding sexual intercourse during the time of the month when conception is most likely to occur. Because this method is widely used in some cultures, it is discussed here. Keep in mind, however, that in most cases the rhythm method is not effective or appropriate as a means of preventing unwanted pregnancy. Conception is only possible during certain days of the female reproductive cycle, five days before and three days after ovulation, or a total of approximately nine days out of a typical 28-day cycle. These fertile days require either abstinence from intercourse or the use of a barrier contraceptive (diaphragm or condom). Because it is difficult to know exactly when ovulation will occur, this method can be very unreliable and should be used only when no other, more reliable form of contraception is acceptable. Those who use this method most successfully are women whose cycles are predictable and regular, those who have had careful instruction and those whose partners are as committed to the method as they. There are several ways to approach predicting fertile days, but a combination of these methods is more effective than any of the first three alone. Body temperature changes during the menstrual cycle, rising approximately 0.4 to 0.8 F on the day of ovulation. It remains at that level until the next period. Take your temperature every morning before getting out of bed and record it on a calendar. You are fertile for up to six days before ovulation and for 24 hours after ovulation. Cervical mucus. Following your period, observe the consistency of your vaginal discharge. Immediately following the period, it should be cloudy and a little sticky. It will change consistency a few days before ovulation, becoming clear. This is your most fertile phase. The calendar or rhythm method works by charting your menstrual cycle on a calendar. This works effectively only if your periods are the same from month to month. The symptothermal method mixes the body temperature, cervical mucus and calendar methods together. The postovulation method requires you to abstain from intercourse or use a barrier contraceptive from the beginning of your period until the morning of the fourth day after your predicted ovulation.
Last Updated: 9/9/2002
The Johns Hopkins University 1996-2003. All rights reserved. This information is not intended to provide advice on personal medical matters, nor is it intended to be a substitute for consultation.
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