Fertility Awareness can help couples to maximise their chances of conception, by recognising signs of fertility and optimising the timing of intercourse. This ensures the highest degree of efficiency in avoiding pregnancy. No known physical side effects Can be used at all stages of reproductive life Both partners share the responsibility for family planning. May improve communication about sexuality May help sub-fertile couples to conceive Enables a couple to take control of their fertility Women can monitor their health and observe changes in sexual health. Morally and culturally acceptable when artificial contraception is unacceptable.
Some women find charting difficult.
There may be fear of unplanned pregnancy because though method failure is low, there is a higher user failure rate particularly during the learning phase. Both partners require a high degree of motivation, and commitment. Modifications to sexual behaviour are needed to ensure abstinence during the fertile phase. There may be difficulty using natural methods at times of stress, after childbirth, after taking the contraceptive pill and during the pre-menopause. Fertility Awareness may be given as part of Well-Woman health checks, or through local medical and family planning services.