Although we have a wide choice of contraceptives today, the majority of people do not know them all and there are many myths about the various possible methods.
When we are in a relationship, the question of contraception is inevitable. For some, the choice is obvious, for others, it's quite a headache! And although today we have a wide choice in contraception, the majority of people do not know all the choices available and several myths exist regarding the various methods possible.
The sympto-thermal method is certainly one of those very little known and mythologized methods. However, most couples who discover this method find only advantages and are very satisfied. So, here's a bit of information about him…
What is the sympto-thermal method?
The sympto-thermal method is an all-natural birth planning method based on knowledge of the female cycle to identify the fertile and infertile periods of the female cycle and thus adapt her sexual behavior. The sympto-thermal method therefore consists of daily recording on a graph thebasal temperature, appearance and feel of cervical mucus, condition of the cervix and any other relevant symptoms (example: pinching in the lower abdomen, pink discharge). Observing the cervical mucus (fluid secreted by the cervix flowing through the vagina) and the cervix shows that ovulation is approaching and, by extension, that the woman is in her period. of fertility. The temperature, on the other hand, makes it possible to ensure that ovulation has indeed taken place and that the woman is now in her infertile period. It is also possible to add a small calculation to determine a period of relative infertility at the beginning of the cycle. The couple then decides on the sexual behavior to adopt according to their desire to conceive a child or not.
The myths of natural methods debunked…
Natural methods are not effective. First of all, it must be said that there are different natural methods and each has its own rate of 'efficiency. The sympto-thermal method is the most effective of all natural methods with a rate comparable to the birth control pill. It is therefore approximately 99% effective, much more than most contraceptive methods!
You can ovulate at any time in the cycle. In reality, this belief stems mainly from the fact that many women have irregular cycles and it there is confusion with the calendar method. It is true that the phase preceding ovulation is variable. Nevertheless,with good observation of the symptoms, it is quite easy to predict when it will occur. In addition, ovulation is easily detected thanks to the temperature.
You can ovulate more than once per cycle. It is true that there may exceptionally be more than one ovulation per cycle. However, the second ovulation will always occur within 24 hours of the first. There cannot therefore be two ovulations at two distinct times in the cycle.
The sympto-thermal method is complicated, difficult to learn and apply. This method is actually quite simple. You just have to understand the basic principles and observe yourself. It usually only takes one cycle to be able to clearly differentiate the periods of the cycle. Generally, it takes less than 5 minutes to take your temperature, observe the symptoms and write them on the graph. The routine therefore sets in quickly.
Natural methods cannot be used by women who have irregular cycles. This is only true for the calendar method. Since the sympto-thermal method allows you to notice that ovulation is approaching, it is quite effective and easy to use, whether you have long, short or irregular cycles.
The symptothermal method involves rigid discipline and a very regular lifestyle. The data to be plotted on the graph is very quick to take. If you are able to brush your teethevery day, you are certainly able to observe yourself! Apart from the temperature which must be taken more specifically, the other symptoms can be observed at any time. And even if you have an irregular schedule, it's simple to adapt the routine accordingly. Even women who work night shifts or irregular shifts can use this method.
The sympto-thermal method requires a long period of abstinence. It is not necessary to be abstinent during the fertile period, but rather continent… The difference? Continence only requires that there is no ejaculation in the vagina. Sexuality is therefore quite possible. Just use your imagination to spice it up! Moreover, one of the advantages of this method is precisely the fact that it invites the couple to explore their sexuality in a more global and diversified way. Exit the monotony of routine sex!
Why a natural method?
The advantages of the sympto-thermal method are very numerous. Here are a few:
Effective: The sympto-thermal method is one of the most reliable methods of contraception with a rate of approximately 99%.
Natural: It does not interfere with any bodily functions and does not impair fertility. It therefore cannot cause any side effects.
Easy: Less than 5 minutes a day is enough! And after a few cycles, it's child's play.
Ecological: Unlike other methods, this one produces absolutely no waste!
Economical: Once the purchase of the thermometer and some graphs, there is no other expense to be made.
Versatile: It can be used throughout life, whether to prevent or promote pregnancy, whether you are 20 or 40 years.
Better self-awareness: This method allows us to become aware of all the small changes that occur in us during a cycle. This knowledge also allows us to observe certain he alth problems early.
Shared responsibility for contraception: In the vast majority of cases, it is up to the woman to take responsibility for contraception… and the side effects associated with it. With the sympto-thermal method, this responsibility is totally shared since the couple can fill in the graphs together and thus see in which period of the cycle they are. Both partners assume the sexual behaviors to adopt.
Enhancing Sexuality: Since this method encourages continence, the vast majority of couples find it a great advantage to break the penetration-ejaculation pattern. This allows you to increase desire and explore your sexuality from different angles.
In short, the sympto-thermal method deserves to be considered when we have to make a choice regarding contraception. The key tosuccess of this method: motivation! In the beginning, one must learn to take good note of the data on the graph and, therefore, have a good understanding of the basics. Thereafter, a little rigor and communication in the couple and voila! To learn how to use the sympto-thermal method, all you have to do is follow a free course offered by Seréna Québec. Several courses are given throughout the year, in several regions of Quebec. It is also possible to buy the Summary of the sympto-thermal method. To know our teaching dates, to order a Precis or to find out more, visit our website.
Nicole Pino
Serena Quebec
6646, rue Saint-Denis
Montreal, QC (H2S 2R9) Tel.: (514) 273-7531
Fax: (514) 273-7532
www.serena.ca
