Successful family planning is brought about by mutual cooperation and support from both partners. It is also important to thoroughly familiarize with the different methods available for family planning since couples have different needs. Some women have a hard time adjusting to artificial contraceptives due to various side effects such as nausea, dizziness, changes in body weight and stomach cramps. For these reasons, some couples prefer to use natural family planning methods since it is safer and does not cost anything at all. There are several types of natural family planning methods used by couples worldwide which can be considered as effective and safe. One of these methods is known as the rhythm method; however, consulting a doctor or reproductive specialist should be the first step in adopting this method. Most mistakes in family planning happen when people assume they know what to do. Only a doctor can properly advise partners on how to maximize the results for this given method. Since rhythm is a natural family planning method, there are certain procedures that must be strictly followed so fertilization would not occur.

A key element in rhythm method for family planning is determining the menstruation cycle of the woman. It is crucial that women who use this method must have a regular cycle or else predicting safe periods would entail higher risk. Once the regular period is determined, mark on the calendar 14 days before the menstruation. The ovulation or release of egg cells happens during these two weeks before menstruation. It is not advisable for couples to have intercourse for 7 days leading to ovulation period since sperm cells would definitely fertilize the egg cells. As a warning, it must be considered that sperm cells can survive as much as 5 days in the uterus. Women can also check their body temperatures in the morning since elevated temperatures indicates ovulation. In cases where intercourse cannot be avoided, condoms can offer protection. The rhythm method for family planning is simple to use but works for those who have regular periods. The success of this method depends on the accuracy of a woman’s ovulation and cooperation of her male partner.