Is FAM right for you?
The fertility awareness method of contraception (FAM) is a good option but it's not for everyone, and the approach is slightly different if you're breastfeeding, or want to get pregnant.
The main challenge is probably using condoms or other precautions. If you're already doing this you've got a head start.
You also need to have periods. True periods, not the withdrawal bleeds you get on the pill. They don't have to be every 28 days, you just need to get them - preferably every 21 to 35 days.
Learning about FAM while you’re on hormonal contraception, or while you’re waiting for your periods to return, might help you see if the routine suits you, but you won't see many changes so it might be a bit dull.
FAM is a very practical method of contraception, you learn as you go along - being cautious until you're sure you know what you're doing: It means you:
The main challenge is probably using condoms or other precautions. If you're already doing this you've got a head start.
You also need to have periods. True periods, not the withdrawal bleeds you get on the pill. They don't have to be every 28 days, you just need to get them - preferably every 21 to 35 days.
Learning about FAM while you’re on hormonal contraception, or while you’re waiting for your periods to return, might help you see if the routine suits you, but you won't see many changes so it might be a bit dull.
FAM is a very practical method of contraception, you learn as you go along - being cautious until you're sure you know what you're doing: It means you:
- Record a few things on an app or a paper chart. Mainly day one of your period, your waking temperature and your maximum fluid days (usually two or three a month). There's a limit to how much you need to record.
- Interpret those things correctly. Use some basic calculations and rules to understand your data which can be challenging, at least to start with. Read about effectiveness.