There are two basic methods of natural birth control - neither are more effective than the other options we've discussed (except abstinence of course).

The Rhythm Method

The Rhythm Method, also known as the Calendar method requires that the woman periodically abstain from intercourse at regulated intervals. These intervals are dictated by physical indicators the most important of which is her menstrual cycle.

There are two schools of thought* when it come to the rhythm method - Standard Days and Knaus-Ogino methods. Both are often referred to as fertility awareness.

Standard Days Method:

The Standard Days method may not be used by women who have menstrual cycles shorter than 26 days or longer than 32 days. This is a fault due to the regimen. Although it is possible for a woman to use a similar method, it would be exclusive of any procedure defined by the Standard Days method.

The Standard Days method defines the first seven days of the menstrual cycle as infertile days. A woman may have intercourse during this period.

The next 11 days (8-19) are considered fertile and intercourse must be avoided for this duration. Infertility resumes after the 19th day.

The Standard Days method is criticized for several reasons. Many health care practitioner's experience indicates that women, especially women, have trouble maintaining the schedule. It also predicates the future actions on historical menstrual periods without accounting for possible changes in a woman's cycle. Also - a woman may experience bleeding that isn't related to menstruation, resulting in a false day-count.

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