Symptothermal

The symptothermal method involves combining several of the natural family planning methods — including, at least, the basal body temperature and mucus methods — to prevent pregnancy. These methods can be checked against each other to determine the beginning and the end of the fertile period. Using a combination of methods increases the effectiveness rate, compared with other natural methods.

Effectiveness rate. The effectiveness rate among users of the symptothermal method is typically 98 percent, meaning that two women out of 100 will get pregnant while using this method for one year. Women who have unpredictable periods, irregular body temperature patterns or recurrent reproductive tract infections shouldn't rely on this method.

How to use the symptothermal method. If you decide to use the symptothermal method, use the basal body temperature and cervical mucus methods at the same time. The calendar method, the position and feel of your cervix, and any pain during ovulation, any breast tenderness, or both, can be other indicators of fertility.

Side effects and health risks. The downside to the symptothermal method is the requirement for a prolonged period of abstinence or barrier methods and the time used to perform the monitoring methods. The method doesn't protect against STDs.

Cost and availability. Using the symptothermal method costs nothing, but classes that teach this technique may charge fees, which vary from region to region.