Re: “The pill – revealed”

In response to The pill — revealed, published February, 26, 2009.

As one quoted in this article (Feb. 26 issue), I want to correct information provided on Fertility Awareness Methods of birth control. Inaccurate, incomplete and misleading information often dissuades women and their healthcare providers from considering FAM as an effective alternative to hormonal contraception. Here is an accurate summary of the method.

Fertility Awareness Method (FAM)

How it works: The most effective Fertility Awareness Method is the sympto-thermal method. It teaches a woman how to observe, chart and interpret two signs of fertility that ebb and flow with the natural hormonal changes of each menstrual cycle. She keeps a record (chart) of daily observations of her cervical mucus secretions and waking temperature (Basal Body Temperature). This information is used to determine when the fertile phase begins and ends. The fertile phase typically lasts 7 to 10 days and is the time during which ovulation (release of egg) occurs. To prevent pregnancy, intercourse is avoided during the entire fertile phase. Women can choose to use barrier methods such as condoms or diaphragm for protected intercourse during fertile days.

Effectiveness: The sympto-thermal Fertility Awareness Method is 99.6% effective when used consistently and perfectly with avoidance of intercourse during the fertile phase. It is 75- 80 % effective with typical use. If barrier methods are used during the fertile phase, the effectiveness rate of the barrier method applies.

Lowest expected rate of pregnancy: 0.4%

More information: www.sexualityandu.ca (Contraception / Natural Birth Control), www.justisse.ca (free user’s guide & find a FAM teacher)

– Laura Wershler, Executive Director, Sexual Health Access Alberta

Published in Volume 63, Number 24 of The Uniter (March 19, 2009)