The Rhythm Method

Natural birth control is the main focus of the rhythm method as opposed to other methods that use physical devices such as pills or condoms. This process goes back to the basics and allows the couple, or more specifically, the woman to take full responsibility for her ovulation. Obviously, the man should also have some awareness of this method to be the best support that he can to his partner. 

1. What you need to know about “The Rhythm Method.” This is a birth control measure that any woman can follow. It relies only on the knowledge of your ovulation cycle. No other birth control device is required to use The Rhythm Method. You can calculate the best time of the month to have sex with the lowest probability of getting pregnant by knowing the days you are most fertile. The “danger zone” is during ovulation, which happens fourteen days before the start of menstruation.
2. Scientific background. This is a very ancient method of birth control, but modern scientists have studied this cycle to understand the real mechanics behind it. If you want to move away from common language and are looking to expand your knowledge, you will find “The Rhythm Method” referred to as the “Knaus-Ogino” or “The Calendar Based Contraceptive Method”. Scientists such as Theodoor Hendrik Van De Velde, Kyosaku Ogino and Hermann Kanus were responsible for giving validation to this method. They gave the laymen a clear explanation of what was really going on and how it could be applied.
3. Birth control reliance. This is an important aspect women should know before following the “Rhythm Method”. The bad news is that is not very reliable and often ends with pregnancy, even if you are careful every single day. Using this method alone to avoid getting pregnant should not be you first choice. Not even your second choice. You must always remember that this is a method that relies on prediction, meaning that it is not totally exact. It is even less reliable if the menstrual cycle is affected by stress or medication.
4. When to use it. You would only resort to this measure if you don’t have any other birth control method available, something that is very rare these days. Also, you can try this approach if you have a well established relationship and you can deal with the consequences. If you are young and immature then forget about The Rhythm Method. It is also not effective for preventing sexually transmitted diseases. Again, remember to count fourteen days back from the first day of your period to calculate the time of the month you will ovulate. Also know that sperm can live up to seven days inside the woman.