natural contraception. How to avoid pregnancy without birth control

Cervical method of contraception (also cervical mucus method, Billings method)- one of the methods of both pregnancy prevention and natural family planning. It got its name from the Australian doctor John Billings, who noticed that before ovulation, cervical mucus changes in consistency, so it can be used to determine fertility days in the menstrual cycle.

Description of the cervical method of contraception

The cervical method of contraception consists in daily monitoring of the state of the consistency of cervical mucus and recording observations from a specially created table, starting with last days menses. For this purpose, one must choose conventions so-called "dry" days, when the vagina remains dry to the touch inside, the so-called. "fertile" days when you can observe different types, as well as the so-called. "dangerous" days, during which the mucus has a wet and viscous consistency. The last “dangerous” day is the most favorable for conception, the so-called “peak day”.

According to the cervical method of contraception, in a time period unfavorable for conception, cervical mucus has a thick, possibly lumpy consistency, it forms the so-called "cork". In this case, the discharge is almost invisible, and the vagina is more “dry” to the touch. Closer to the period of ovulation, the discharge becomes more fluid, as well as transparent. With this moment it is necessary to refrain from sexual intercourse or use other contraceptive methods (for example, a condom), if the method cervical contraception used to avoid unwanted pregnancy.

During the period that is most favorable for conception, the mucus is quite "viscous", and it can be easily stretched between the fingers. This cervical mucus resembles raw egg white in consistency. After the cessation of ovulation, the discharge again becomes thick, and then completely disappears. Since the structure of the cervical mucus is modified a few days before and also a few days after the end of ovulation, it is possible to calculate the approximate day of ovulation. After three days after the “rush day” favorable for conception and before the onset of menstruation, according to the method of cervical contraception, it is allowed not to protect yourself.

Disadvantages of the cervical method of contraception

The cervical method of contraception has the following disadvantages:

• imbalance in the level of hormones that affect the formation of cervical mucus can serve as a source of viscous and wet mucus several times per menstrual cycle, although ovulation does not occur. Therefore, it is possible to make a mistake, consider that the “peak day” has already passed, and stop using contraceptives ahead of time;
• the cervical method of contraception is not suitable for females with diseases uterine cervix or vagina, since in this case it is not possible to determine the consistency of the secreted mucus;
• "dry" vagina means "safe" days, that is, days unfavorable for conception. However, many females experience discharge throughout menstrual cycle. Therefore, the cervical method of contraception is also not suitable for them;
• the cervical method of contraception as a method of preventing pregnancy is not very effective, the Pearl index is approximately equal to fifteen, that is, fifteen women out of a hundred who were protected by this method for one year still became pregnant. But with proper implementation, as well as qualified training, the Pearl Index for cervical method contraception is from one to three.

Combination with other methods

The combination of the cervical method of contraception with the temperature increases its effectiveness, the resulting combination (the so-called symptothermal method) has greater reliability, almost similar to that of hormonal contraception.

Contraceptive methods
Symtothermal method of contraception

cervical mucus- this is what most women pay attention to from their teenage years or a little later in adulthood. At these stages, they may wonder, what is it? Such information becomes more valuable in reproductive age. While the term slime can be a little hard to hear, it's various states useful to know, as they indicate ovulation, the fertile period, and also the menstrual cycle in which there is a minimal chance of getting pregnant.

Cervical Mucus (CS)- secretions produced by glands in a woman's cervix in response to changes in hormone levels (estrogen and progesterone). Depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle, mucus can act as a barrier to sperm from accessing the cervix to the uterus or environment, or, conversely, contribute to a faster movement of spermatozoa.

How is cervical mucus related to fertility?

You can find many ovulation tracking tests on the market, but there is an exceptional predictor (predictor) that resides in every woman's body. Periodic monitoring of changes in the secret that is produced in the cervix is ​​useful and provides an easy way for women to monitor the cycle, as well as determine the most. It is a good alternative or addition to fluctuation measurements, which mostly change only after ovulation. Cervical mucus changes occur a few days before ovulation, indicating right time for sexual intercourse for conception.

The cervix lies just at the entrance leading to the vagina. This is where cervical mucus is formed and secreted. Hormonal changes change an important role and affect the consistency, as well as the amount of secretion. The cervix is ​​the entry point for the spermatozoa that swim through the cervical mucus of the CS and must travel all the way to fertilize the egg.

The CS may function well for most of the cycle as a barrier or impediment to the passage of sperm. It contains white blood cells and other chemicals that prevent penetration foreign bodies. In addition, it mechanically closes the cervix to prevent their spread.

During the period of fertility, church secretions change in composition and consistency, thus, they facilitate the passage of sperm through the cervix. They also increase the lifespan of spermatozoa, allowing them to live up to five days in a woman's body. Keeping an eye on your cervical mucus can go a long way in helping you determine when to make a successful attempt at conception.

How does cervical mucus change in different phases of the menstrual cycle?

There are some descriptions of discharge characteristics that can help you identify the different phases of your menstrual cycle.

Cycle phase	Characteristics of cervical mucus
Before ovulation	In the first few days after your period, you may experience very little or no discharge. The area around the vulva can often be dry and the chance of getting pregnant is close to zero.
approaching ovulation	A sticky and moist secretion is noted, which is usually cream or white. Usually the discharge does not stretch much between the fingers when the symptom of cervical mucus distension is checked. Its volume increases as it approaches the exit of the egg, and the color becomes less transparent.
During ovulation	At this stage, the CA is more like egg white, and basically it is liquid and pronounced - it becomes a lot. It stretches for a longer distance before breaking. Volume peaks dramatically around ovulation, when the chance of conception is high.
After ovulation	The secretions return to their previous state, are easily torn when stretched between the fingers and their volume is reduced. The vulva area also becomes dry.

*Days are approximate for an average (28 day cycle)

The phase of the cycle can be misdiagnosed if the cervical mucus is confused with semen, and therefore care must be taken when checking for the symptom of distension of the cervical mucus. In addition, there are other factors that can lead to misinterpretation, such as medical conditions, vaginal infections, birth control methods.

After tracking the changes in the mucus in the cervix, you may find that most of the time during the ovulation period, it is not conducive to fertility (does not match the description). In addition, it may be sticky and thick, rather than elastic and liquid. This can be caused by stress, diets, hormonal factors, or even medications. You can follow the following tips if you encounter these issues:

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Take FertileCM, which is a dietary supplement that increases cervical mucus production.
• Finally, you can use a special lubricant that will help sperm, such as Pre-Seed. It has a consistency and pH similar to cervical mucus. This can help the sperm survive and reach the egg to fertilize it.

How to check cervical mucus

1. Collection of cervical mucus

Sample collection is very important and you need to make sure your hands are clean beforehand to avoid bacterial infections.

• Insert one finger into the vagina, try to run it around the cervix to get enough secretion. This is the most accurate method.
• Or try wiping the entrance to the vagina with a tissue and carefully analyze the collected secretions.
• You can also use a cotton swab.

Sample taking

• Take correct pattern: sometimes you can just check your underwear or tissue. But to get an accurate sample, it is better to use the method described above.
• Do not test after sex: Do not test your CV when you are sexually aroused or immediately after sex, as the sample may be inaccurate.
• Check after a bowel movement. If you have difficulty analyzing, do so after a bowel movement and remember to wash your hands before inserting your finger into the vagina.
• Combine with measurement basal body temperature body in cases (polycystic ovary syndrome): Women with PCOS may sometimes have a slight discharge, which may look like fertile mucus, throughout their menstrual cycle. In this case, you may have to rely on your basal temperature to give you an idea of ​​when the mucus might be related to ovulation.
• CC can disappear due to drugs: some of the drugs, such as antihistamines, can reduce or even remove it, and you will find most of the fertile CC after ovulation.
• Seek medical attention if cervical mucus never becomes thin or egg-like: You may want to see a doctor, as sperm-hostile CS can cause infertility.

A discharge that looks like egg white before your period is not a sign of ovulation: you may find that the cervical mucus is moist and somewhat yellowish white before your period; of course, this is not a sign of the release of the egg from the follicle and

The Cervical Mucus Method, also called the Billing Method, is a natural family planning method.

The cervical mucus method relies on careful observation of mucus samples during the menstrual cycle. Before ovulation, cervical secretions change - an environment is created that helps the sperm to pass through the cervix, uterus and fallopian tubes to the egg. By monitoring changes in the characteristics of cervical mucus, it is possible to predict ovulation, which can help you determine when you can become pregnant.

If you are planning a pregnancy, you can use the cervical method to determine better days for sexual intercourse. Similarly, if you're hoping to avoid pregnancy, it helps to know which days to avoid unprotected sex.

Using the cervical mucus method to prevent conception requires motivation and diligence. If you do not want to conceive, you and your partner must avoid sex or use a barrier method of contraception each month.

Advantages

The cervical method can be used as a way to determine fertile days, or to avoid unprotected sex. Controlling the state of cervical mucus for conception and prevention of pregnancy is accessible way and does not have side effects. Some women choose to use the cervical mucus method for religious reasons.

This method natural family planning is sometimes combined with others, such as tracking or . It is sometimes called the symptomatic method.

Risks

Using the cervical mucus method for fertility stimulation and conception control does not pose any risks, but does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections. In addition, the risk is slightly higher than with other methods of contraception.

It is estimated that 23 out of 100 women who use the cervical mucus method for contraception become pregnant in the first year of using this method. But at maximum correct application the pregnancy rate can reach 3 out of 100 women per year using this method.

The cervical method requires formal training. Constant and careful daily monitoring is also required. In addition, abstinence or the use of contraception is required for 10-17 days of each cycle.

How to prepare?

To use the cervical mucus method, it is important to understand how secretions change during the menstrual cycle. Typically you will have:

• No noticeable cervical secretions within 3-4 days after the end of menstruation
• Scanty, cloudy and sticky discharge for the next 3-5 days
• Abundant, clear and moist discharge resembling egg white for the next 3-4 days - the period before and during ovulation
• No noticeable cervical discharge for 11-14 days before the next period

Although the specific length of these phases may vary, contact your gynecologist if the discharge does not match. general scheme. You may have an infection that requires medical attention.

If you want to use the cervical method for contraception, contact your doctor first if:

• You recently had your first period, gave birth, or stopped taking hormonal contraceptives
• Do you have a breastfed child?
• You are approaching menopause
• Do you have a medical condition that interferes with regular ovulation, such as

Your doctor may not allow you to use the cervical mucus method if you have a chronic reproductive tract infection.

How to check cervical mucus?

1. Wash and dry your hands first.
2. Find a comfortable position by sitting on the toilet, squatting or standing with one foot on the edge of the tub or toilet.
3. Place one or two fingers inside your vagina. Index or middle would probably work best. Be careful not to scratch yourself. Depending on how much cervical mucus you produce, you may not need to get deep, but getting a sample near the cervix is ​​still ideal.
4. Remove your finger from your vagina and examine the consistency of the mucus that remains on the finger. Do this by looking at the mucus and rubbing it between two fingers (usually thumb and forefinger). Try squeezing your fingers and then slowly spread them apart.

Viscous clear mucus in large numbers talk about maximum fertility right before ovulation.

What do you need to know?

To use the cervical mucus method:

• Record your secretions over several cycles. Starting from the day the menstrual bleeding stops, observe and record the discharge on a chart. To avoid confusing cervical discharge with semen or normal sexual lubrication, avoid sex or use a barrier method of contraception during the first cycle. Also avoid douching, as this may not notice a change in the nature of the discharge.
• Check discharge before and after urination. Write down the color (yellow, white, clear, or cloudy), the consistency (thick, sticky, or rubbery), and the feel (dry, wet, or slippery) of your discharge. Also notice any sensations of dryness or moisture in the vulva.
• Carefully plan sex during fertile days. These are the days when the cervical discharge is abundant, transparent, elastic, wet and slippery - like raw egg white. If you're hoping to get pregnant, now is the time to have sex. Ovulation most likely occurs during or one day after last day this type of cervical secretion, also known as peak day.
• If you are hoping to avoid pregnancy, unprotected sex undesirable in the interval from the beginning of cervical discharge to the peak day and 4 more days after it If you have unprotected sex before the discharge starts, you should avoid sex for the next 24 hours to avoid confusing semen and lube with cervical secretions.

Interpretation and mapping of cervical mucus can be challenging task. Most women need more than one briefing to recognize the pattern of mucus in a typical menstrual cycle. Consult your doctor for any questions or concerns.

The Cervical Method, also known as the Billing Method, is a NFP (Natural Family Planning) method. It is used to determine the moment of ovulation as accurately as possible and thus choose the most favorable period for conception. The method got its name in honor of the Australian married couple Billing, who discovered that cervical mucus (a substance secreted by the mucous glands of the cervix) changes during the female cycle.

How does the cervical method work?

The Billings found that the production of mucus in the cervix is ​​directly related to hormonal changes during the cycle. The release of the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone has a direct effect on cervical mucus, which changes throughout the cycle not only in color and quantity, but above all in consistency. For maximum exact definition the moment of ovulation with the cervical method, daily monitoring of the properties of mucus is necessary for several months. To do this, check the quality of the mucus in the morning manually or using two layers. toilet paper for signs of fertility. Features and changes in mucus are recorded in a special schedule or history journal, on the basis of which it will later be possible to determine the date of ovulation.

Cervical method: 5 phases are distinguished

The cervical method distinguishes 5 phases, within which 2 types of mucus are mainly distinguished.

• 1 phase: Immediately after menstruation, a woman's estrogen levels are still very low and mucus production is low. Cervical mucus continues to be produced, but forms a tight plug at the entrance to the uterus, preventing microbes from penetrating inside. The vagina is drier at this point, which is why this phase is also called “dry days”.
• 2 phase: some time before ovulation, estrogen levels rise and the mucous plug changes its consistency. The vagina now also contains viscous, cloudy, yellow or white sticky mucus. Due to its relatively dense structure, this mucus still provides a natural barrier to spermatozoa and restricts or makes it difficult for them to enter the uterus until the egg is ready for fertilization.
• 3 phase: Just before and after ovulation, a woman's estrogen levels are at their highest. During this period, mucus production reaches its peak, which is commonly referred to as “wet days”. The mucus becomes noticeably lighter, clearer and more elastic. In its consistency, it resembles raw protein and can be stretched between fingers or layers of toilet paper into a thread 6-15 cm long. This is the period of the so-called “mucus crystallization” (mucus viscosity). It usually lasts about 2-3 days and clearly indicates ovulation. Since spermatozoa penetrate well only through this “fertile” mucus, couples who want to have a baby are advised to have unprotected intercourse from the moment such secretions appear. Thanks to the mucus, the spermatozoa are also well protected from the hostile acidic environment of the vagina and can survive in a woman's body for 3 to 5 days. The chances of getting pregnant are thus greatly increased.
• 4 phase: a few days after ovulation, the female body begins to intensively produce progesterone instead of estrogen. Mucous discharge becomes more scarce, viscous, cloudy and lumpy. Conditions for penetrating sperm are deteriorating, and the chance of fertilization is inexorably reduced.
• 5 phase: in the premenstrual phase, mucus production continues to decline, and the body prepares for menstruation. Regular and continuous study of the structure of the mucus is fundamental when using the cervical method, it makes it possible to record even minor changes and evaluate your own body more objectively.

Is the cervical method reliable?

Mucus production female body depends on many different factors. Mental stress, bacterial infections, taking medications (such as ointments or suppositories) used vaginally can affect the structure and amount of cervical mucus. In addition, its quality is affected by hormonal fluctuations, which make it difficult to objectively analyze the signs. The production and quality of mucus can also be influenced by the nutrition of a woman. In addition, it is important to consider that the above signs in different women may be expressed in different ways. It is for this reason that the cervical method requires constant monitoring of one's own body. The method is not suitable for everyone also because in some women the cervical mucus undergoes such minor changes during the cycle that they cannot be detected with the naked eye. In addition to the method of determining the moment of ovulation for conception, the cervical method can also be used as a natural method of contraception. However, as independent method protection, it is considered unreliable. Therefore, for both purposes, it is recommended to combine the cervical method

Let's stop at physiological methods of contraception. They are not intended to be used medicines, various devices and manipulations. Knowing the characteristics of her body, a woman can plan an intimate life in such a way as to protect herself from unwanted pregnancy. Who is shown these methods and how effective are they?
Physiological, or biological contraceptive methods refer to natural methods of family planning. Consist in refraining from sexual intercourse during the fertile phase of the menstrual cycle (the period during which a woman can become pregnant).
During the menstrual cycle, a woman's body prepares for conception and pregnancy. If conception does not occur, this process is repeated again. The duration of the menstrual cycle is determined from the first day of menstruation (beginning spotting), until the first day of the next and is 21-36 days, more often - 28 days.

Phases of the menstrual cycle

Phases of the menstrual cycle. In the first phase of the menstrual cycle (in the first 14 days of a 28-day cycle) in ovaries there is a growth and maturation of the follicle (vesicle with an egg inside). The growing vesicle secretes estrogens(female sex hormones). Under the influence of estrogens, the mucous membrane grows uterus - endometrium. On the 14-16th day of the cycle, the follicle bursts, and a mature egg, capable of fertilization, comes out of its cavity, that is, ovulation.

natural methods family planning can use:

• women reproductive age having a regular menstrual cycle
• couples who are religious, ethical and other beliefs do not allow the use of other methods of contraception;
• women who, for health reasons, etc., cannot use other methods;
• couples who are willing to abstain from sexual activity for more than one week in each cycle.

Should not use these methods:

• women whose age, number of births or health conditions make pregnancy dangerous for them;
• women with an irregular menstrual cycle (breastfeeding, immediately after an abortion);
• women with irregular menstrual cycles;
• women who do not want to abstain from sexual activity on certain days of the menstrual cycle.

Types of physiological methods

To biological (physiological) or natural methods family planning (EMPS) include: calendar (or rhythmic), temperature, cervical mucus method, symptothermal (a combination of the two methods listed above), coitus interruptus, lactational amenorrhea method (during lactation, there is a physiological suppression of ovulation due to the baby sucking on the breast), abstinence (refraining from sexual intercourse).

Calendar (rhythmic) method of contraception

To determine the fertile phase, it is necessary to analyze at least 6-12 menstrual cycles. During this period, abstinence from sexual activity or protection is necessary. barrier methods of contraception.
When analyzing the menstrual calendar for 6-12 months, the shortest and longest cycles are distinguished. The number 18 is subtracted from the number of days of the shortest and the day of the beginning of the "dangerous" period is obtained, and the number 11 is subtracted from the number of the longest menstrual cycle and the last day of the "dangerous" period is found out.
Let's give an example of calculating the "dangerous" period with a constant menstrual cycle of 28 days.

• The beginning of the "dangerous" period: 28 - 18 = 10th day of the cycle.
• End of the "dangerous" period: 28 - 11 = 17th day of the cycle inclusive.
• The duration of the "dangerous" period is 8 days. It starts on the 10th day of the menstrual cycle and ends on the 17th day.

Attention! This method can be used only with strict accounting of all menstrual cycles in the calendar and with a small spread of the menstrual cycle during the year. If you have not marked the duration of the menstrual cycle on the calendar for 6-12 months and cannot say with accuracy about the stability of the cycle, then this method is not suitable for contraception, as well as for calculating the most favorable days for conception.

Temperature method of contraception

The temperature method of contraception is based on determining the time of temperature rise in the rectum ( basal body temperature).
It is known that at the time of ovulation, the temperature in the rectum decreases, and the next day it rises. By daily measurement basal body temperature for several (at least three) months and abstinence from sexual intercourse in the first phase of the menstrual cycle, including the first three days of a rise in temperature after ovulation, a woman will be able to determine when she ovulates. The effectiveness of the method depends on the accuracy of determining the timing of ovulation.
Therefore, it is necessary to measure the temperature, observing the following rules: always in the morning, within 10 minutes, immediately after waking up, without getting out of bed, using the same thermometer and with eyes closed, as bright light can provoke the release of certain hormones and contribute to a change basal body temperature. The thermometer is inserted into the rectum to a depth of 4-6 cm. The temperature value is noted on the graph.
Schedule basal body temperature (see graph 1): normal from the very beginning of the menstrual cycle (its duration is calculated from the first day of the previous menstruation to the first day of the next) and before the onset of ovulation, the basal temperature is below 37 degrees C and can vary within a small range, for example, from 36 .6 degrees C to 36.8 degrees C. At the time of ovulation, the temperature drops slightly (for example, to 36.4 degrees C), the next day basal body temperature rises above 37 degrees C (37.2-37.4). At this level, she keeps until the next menstruation. The decrease in temperature and the subsequent jump beyond the line of 37 degrees C allows us to determine ovulation period. In a 28-day cycle, a healthy woman usually ovulates on days 13-14 of the cycle. It should be noted that due to the increase in body temperature during various diseases numbers basal body temperature also get high.

But can only these two days be considered "dangerous"? Far from it. Even having clearly defined your individual ovulation period, you cannot protect yourself from accidents. If you are nervous, overworked, the climate has changed dramatically, and sometimes for no apparent reason, ovulation can occur 1-2 days earlier or later than usual. In addition, it is necessary to take into account the duration of the viability of the egg and sperm. If, on the eve of the expected menstruation and especially on the date of the expected, but delayed menstruation, several fever in the rectum, this allows you to suspect a pregnancy that has already occurred.
Temperature method of contraception determining the period of increased fertility implies sufficient discipline of the woman and the exclusion of haste in the morning. The inconvenience of the method is associated with the need for daily temperature measurement, and a rather long abstinence. However, when used correctly, the effectiveness is quite high. In women suffering from diseases of the genital organs, the schedule of basal temperature may change. In this case, the question of the advisability of using this method should be discussed with the doctor.

Cervical (cervical) mucus method

In different phases of the menstrual cycle, cervical mucus is produced in the cervix, different in quantity and consistency. Its quantity and consistency is influenced by female sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone). At the beginning of the cycle, immediately after menstruation, when the level of estrogen is low, there is little mucus, it is thick and sticky. This thick and sticky mucus forms a fibrous network that "plugs" the cervix and creates a barrier to sperm entry.
Besides acidic environment vagina quickly destroys spermatozoa. Rising levels of estrogen gradually change the cervical mucus, which becomes clearer and thinner. Nutrients appear in the composition of the mucus to maintain the vital activity of spermatozoa, and its reaction becomes alkaline. This mucus, getting into the vagina, neutralizes its acidity and creates an environment favorable for spermatozoa. Such mucus is called fertile, its amount increases 24 hours before ovulation. The last day of slippery and wet slime is called peak day. This means that ovulation is close or has just occurred. After ovulation, under the influence of the hormone progesterone, cervical mucus forms a dense and sticky plug, which prevents the advancement of spermatozoa. The vaginal environment becomes acidic again, where the spermatozoa lose their mobility and are destroyed. 3 days after the appearance of sticky, viscous mucus, a phase of absolute sterility begins, during which, until the start of the next menstruation, pregnancy will be impossible. Application method of cervical (cervical) mucus with the aim of contraception involves keeping records. In this case, a number of codes can be used (see graph 1).
It is believed that the first day of menstruation is the first day of the cycle, subsequent days are numbered. Phase of relative infertility: red squares with an asterisk indicate days of menstrual bleeding; green squares indicate a period characterized by dryness in the vagina, the so-called "dry days". Fertility phase (squares yellow color with the letter M, day 11 of the menstrual cycle) begins with the appearance of mucus in the vagina. Ovulation has not yet occurred, but the sperm that has entered the woman's genital tract at this time can remain viable and "wait" for the egg. As ovulation approaches, cervical mucus becomes more abundant and elastic. In this case, the tension of the mucus (when it is stretched between the thumb and forefinger) can reach 8-10 centimeters. Next comes peak day (M). This means that ovulation is close or has just occurred. The fertility phase continues for another 3 days and its total duration in our case is 7 days (from 11 to 17 days of the menstrual cycle). The phase of absolute sterility begins on the fourth day after the maximum discharge (on our chart from day 18) and continues until the first day of the next menstruation.

Since mucus can change its consistency throughout the day, watch it several times a day. For this big and forefinger inserted into the vagina and take the available discharge. Further, the mucus is evaluated for consistency and ability to stretch between the fingers. There are no discharges on dry days. Each night before bed, determine your fertility level (see legend) and put the corresponding symbol on the map.
Abstain from sexual activity for at least one cycle to determine the days with mucus.
After the end of menstruation during "dry days" you can safely have sex every second night (the rule of alternating dry days). This will prevent mucus from being confused with semen.
If any mucus or feeling of moisture in the vagina appears, sexual intercourse should be avoided or barrier contraceptives should be used at this time.
Mark the last day of clear, slippery, stringy mucus with an X. This is the peak day - the most fertile period.
After peak day, avoid sexual intercourse for the next 3 dry days and nights. These days are not safe (the egg is still viable).
Starting from the morning of the 4th "dry day" and before the onset of menstruation, you can have sexual intercourse without fear of becoming pregnant.

The effectiveness of this method is low: 9-25 pregnancies per 100 women within 1 year of use.

Coitus interruption method

consists in removing the penis from the vagina before ejaculation (ejaculation) begins, so that sperm does not enter the vagina and cervix. Its advantage is that it does not require any training or special devices, can be applied at any time and does not require monetary costs. The method requires considerable attention on the part of the man, since some men have spermatozoa in the secret that stands out even before orgasm.
In addition, sperm, getting on the skin of the genital organs, retains fertilizing properties for some time. There is a widespread opinion regarding the violation of the sexual function of partners using coitus interruptus. Harmless application of this method is possible with a high sexual culture of partners, with sufficient motivation for choice. It is not recommended for young, inexperienced men and those who have difficulty with erection, potency and premature ejaculation.
Instructions for partners:

• Partners should discuss their intention to use method of interruption before intercourse.
• Before sexual intercourse, a man should empty bladder and wipe the head of the penis to remove semen that may have been left over from a previous (less than 24 hours ago) ejaculation.
• When a man feels that ejaculation is about to happen, he must remove the penis from the woman's vagina in order to sperm did not get on her external genitalia. A woman can help him by moving back a little at this time.

Lactational amenorrhea method (LAM)

use of breastfeeding as a contraception. It is based on the physiological effect that the child has on the suppression of ovulation by the mother's breast sucking (physiological infertility develops during lactation).

Who can use MLA
Exclusively breastfeeding women who are less than 6 months postpartum and have not yet started menstruating.

Who Shouldn't Use MLA

• Women who have resumed menstruation.
• Women who are not exclusively (or almost exclusively) breastfeeding.
• Women who have a baby already 6 months old.

It is important to know!

• Feed your baby from both breasts on demand (about 6-10 times a day).
• Feed the baby at least once at night (the interval between feedings should not exceed 6 hours). Note: The child may not want to eat 6-10 times a day or may prefer to sleep through the night. This is normal, but if any of them occur, the effectiveness of breastfeeding as a contraceptive method is reduced.
• Once you start replacing breast milk other food or liquid, the baby will suckle less and breast-feeding cease to be effective method pregnancy protection.
• The resumption of periods means that your fertility has returned and you should immediately start using other methods of contraception.

abstinence- abstaining from sexual intercourse. This method of contraception does not affect breastfeeding. With abstinence, the effectiveness of protection against pregnancy is 100%. But for some couples, long periods of postpartum withdrawal are difficult to bear. Therefore, abstinence is convenient to use as an intermediate method.