The calendar method of contraception and the appropriateness of its use

Today, there are many methods that help reduce the risk of pregnancy, which is not part of the plans of partners. However, such a variety appeared relatively recently. Previously, one of the most popular methods was the calendar method of contraception. Now it is not so relevant, but very often it is one of the most real methods of protection from an untimely pregnancy. As a rule, its use is justified, when the application of all other techniques is impossible due to existing contraindications or lack of access at this time.

The calendar method of contraception is also called natural, or rhythmic. The essence of it is that the menstrual cycle is divided into dangerous and safe phases. That is, in those days when the risk of pregnancy is high, it is necessary to abstain from sexual intercourse or use contraceptives. In the rest of the time, you can not limit yourself in the vicinity, without using any additional means of protection.

However, it should be remembered that the calendar method of protection is suitable only for those girls whose menstrual cycle is regular, and there are no diseases in the gynecological sphere.

The technique is based on the timing of ovulation. As a rule, with the standard 28-day cycle, ovulation occurs approximately in the middle of the cycle: on day 14. At a cycle consisting of 30 days - on 15-16 day, and so forth. Considering the fact that for all women the duration of the menstrual cycle is highly individual, about 13-17 days are allocated for the period of ovulation .

It is also important that the calendar method of contraception takes into account the life span of spermatozoa and the possibility of fertilization of the egg. That is why a dangerous period should be added a few more days. Thus, the time, favorable for conception, expands from about 9 to 18 days.

It is necessary to consider the formula, thanks to which the calculations of dangerous and safe for conception are carried out:

• The initial phase: from the number of days of the lowest in the duration of the menstrual cycle, you subtract 18 (for example, 27-18 = 9);
• The final phase: from the longest cycle we take 11 (for example, 30-11 = 21).

Thus, from 9 to 21 days, a dangerous period for those who do not want to become pregnant.

Remember that the wider the range between the shortest and longest cycles, the less reliable is the use of the calendar method of contraception.

When choosing this principle of protection from unwanted pregnancy, it should be borne in mind that disruptions in the cycle can be caused by a variety of reasons: stressful situations, illness, increased fatigue, climate changes or even weather conditions. These factors significantly reduce the effectiveness of this method to about 50%.

All methods of protection have certain limitations in use. This principle, in addition to the low degree of efficiency and regularity of the cycle, also requires a long period of abstinence from intimacy and constant fear of pregnancy.

Among the possible contraindications called recommended use of more effective methods of protection and irregular menstrual cycle.

Among the advantages of this method, doctors call the absence of side effects and full availability. However, it is important to remember that an important role in this is played by a reliable and constant sexual partner whom you trust, and who is not sick with venereal diseases.

However, in view of the current health problems that arise in women, doctors still recommend using more reliable methods of protection, the lack of which is not available today.