It involves abstaining from sex during the fertile period in a woman s menstrual cycle. The fertile phase begins at the beginning of follicular development and ends 48 hours after ovulation. Sperm retains the capacity to fertilise the egg for up to 5 days in the cervical mucus. Thus the combined unsafe phase for sex is about 6 to 8 days of every cycle. Owing to individual variations and irregularities in the date of ovulation, it is unwise to depend on the rhythm method for effective contraception.
Condoms are one of the oldest and most reliable methods of contraception.
A condom is a thin, lubricated rubber sheath that is worn over the penis in a state of erection. It acts as a barrier, trapping the sperm within, and not allowing it to enter the cervical canal. A fresh condom has to be used every time a couple has sex. As condoms are not very expensive, this does not pose a problem. One complaint against condoms is the reduced sensitivity experienced during sex.