The following guidelines are applicable to all alternative methods. Whenever possible, consult with someone who is familiar with the technique you plan to use. The earlier these methods are used, the more effective they will be. It is best to use them between the first day you expect your period and the 10th day after it is due. Effectiveness will decrease significantly after this time.
Alternative methods are most useful for women with regular menstrual cycles.
It is important to be familiar with your cycle as part of an overall program of reproductive health. You can determine your monthly cycle by charting it on a calendar over a period of time. If these methods are not successful and you carry the pregnancy to term, or if you are breastfeeding, the effects on the fetus or infant are not known. Do not take more than the recommended dosage or for longer than the recommended duration. This will not increase the effectiveness, but may greatly increase the risk of serious side effects.