It takes three to six cycles to learn effectively. You have to keep daily records. Events such as illness, stress and travel may make fertility indicators harder to interpret. To be successful, both you and your partner need to be very committed to the method. Natural methods don't protect you against sexually transmitted infections.
Most people can use natural methods as long as they receive good instructions and support.
They can be used at all stages of reproductive life. It may take longer to recognise your fertility indicators at certain times, for example after stopping hormonal contraception such as the pill, during breastfeeding or approaching the menopause. Some natural methods rely on using only one of the indicators of fertility. Your body temperature rises slightly after you have ovulated. You can chart this by taking your temperature every day as soon as you wake up.