Family Planning Methods: Natural vs.
Artificial
Natural Family Planning (NFP) Methods
Description: These involve tracking fertility signals to identify fertile windows.
- Calendar Method
Positive Effects:
- No side effects
- Enhances body awareness
- Low cost
Negative Effects:
- Less effective for irregular cycles
- Requires discipline and consistency
- No STI protection
- Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Method
Positive Effects:
- Hormone-free
- Helps understand ovulation patterns
Negative Effects:
- Daily temperature tracking required
- Affected by illness or sleep changes
- Cervical Mucus Method
Positive Effects:
- Non-invasive
- Cost-free
Negative Effects:
- May be difficult to interpret
- No STI protection
Artificial Family Planning Methods
Description: These include hormonal, barrier, and surgical methods.
- Oral Contraceptives (Pills)
Positive Effects:
- Regulates menstruation
- Reduces acne and cramps
Negative Effects:
- Daily intake required
- Side effects (nausea, weight gain)
- Condoms (Male and Female)
Positive Effects:
- Protects against STIs
- Easily accessible
Negative Effects:
- Can break or slip
- May interrupt spontaneity
- Injectables and Patches
Positive Effects:
- Longer-lasting than pills
- Highly effective
Negative Effects:
- Hormonal side effects
- Delayed return to fertility
- Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
Positive Effects:
- Over 99% effective
- Long-term protection (3-10 years)
Negative Effects:
- Requires medical insertion
- May cause cramps or heavier periods (copper IUDs)
