Rhythm method for natural family planning

Free

E-Newsletters

Subscribe to receive the latest updates on health topics. About our newsletters

  • Housecall
  • Alzheimer's caregiving
  • Living with cancer

How you prepare

By Mayo Clinic staff

Tracking your menstrual history doesn't require special preparation. However, if you want to use the rhythm method for birth control, consult your health care provider first if:

  • You recently had your first period, gave birth, or stopped taking birth control pills or other hormonal contraceptives
  • You're breast-feeding
  • You're approaching menopause
References
  1. Jennings V. Fertility awareness-based methods of pregnancy prevention. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Sept. 23, 2011.
  2. Pallone SR, et al. Fertility awareness-based methods: Another option for family planning. Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine. 2009;22:147.
  3. Jennings V, et al. Fertility awareness-based methods. In: Hatcher RA, et al. Contraceptive Technology. 20th ed. New York, N.Y.: Ardent Media; 2011:417.
  4. Zieman M, Hatcher RA, et al. A Pocket Guide to Managing Contraception. Tiger, Ga.;2010:94
  5. Birth control methods: Frequently asked questions. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.womenshealth.gov/faq/birth-control-methods.pdf. Accessed Sept. 23, 2011.
  6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. U.S. medical eligibility criteria for contraceptive use, 2010. MMWR. 2010;59(RR-4):1. http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr59e0528a1.htm. Accessed Sept. 23, 2011.
MY01003 Dec. 17, 2011

© 1998-2012 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "EmbodyHealth," "Enhance your life," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.

  • Reprints
  • Print
  • Share on:

  • Email

Advertisement


Text Size: smaller largerlarger