Natural family planning includes 2 general methods.
-The first method attempts to predict ovulation. Couples can then avoid having sex during and around that date. An ovulation date can be determined (not very precisely) in these ways:
1. Calendar method. Ovulation occurs 14 days before an expected menstruation. You shouldn’t have sex 4 days before and 3 day after ovulation. This method can be used only if you have regular cycles;
2. Measuring the basal temperature of the body. Body temperature is slightly increased after ovulation, so when the body tempature rises, you know that you are ovulating.
3. Method of investigating the cervical mucus which becomes thicker after ovulation.
(Points 2 an 3 are not very practical and relatively difficult to use to predict ovulation.) You must be an accurate and acute witness of your body in order to attempt ovulation prediction in family planning.
-The second method is to pull the penis out of the vagina before ejaculation (pre cum). For this method the man needs to have great self-control.
Natural contraceptive methods are not as effective as un-natural. Condoms, birth control pills, and intrauterine devices are much more efficient in preventing pregnancy. Most doctors recommend patients choose a form of un-natural methods for contraception, but it is your body and your choice.