Throughout the millennia of civilization, humans have employed various methods of birth control. In today’s world, there is a multitude of different contraception methods available. However, there continues to be significant interest in naturally utilized methods of preventing pregnancy. For those curious, we will explore the realm of natural contraception methods and how they contribute to preventing unwanted pregnancies. Within the landscape of pregnancy prevention, there exist numerous methods that pose health risks.
Primitive forms of birth control, once considered archaic, have evolved and found their place within modern medicine. Presently, there are numerous birth control methods that couples can adopt. While these methods come with various risks, their success rates differ significantly.
Choosing the most suitable method depends on factors such as women’s health, family planning, age, and personal future aspirations. Therefore, in the process of preventing unwanted pregnancies, selecting an appropriate natural contraception method becomes crucial. Instead of focusing on a singular approach, it is more accurate to identify and implement a personalized method tailored to the individual. Across history, a plethora of natural contraception methods has been utilized, each offering unique characteristics and considerations.
What are natural birth control methods?
When it comes to preventing pregnancy, the most well-known methods include emergency contraception pills and birth control pills. In addition, in recent years, various alternatives such as intrauterine devices have gained popularity. However, these methods are not considered natural forms of birth control. Hence, couples often wonder if there are truly natural methods available for birth control. For those seeking natural ways to prevent pregnancy, there are indeed methods.
While the success of natural birth control methods may be debated, some approaches have been viable options in recent years. Among the most commonly preferred birth control methods are withdrawal and the calendar method. By employing these methods, birth control has been practiced since ancient civilizations.
Read also: What Are Birth Control Methods?
Withdrawal method: In the withdrawal method, during sexual intercourse, the male partner withdraws his penis from the vagina just before ejaculation occurs. This method is generally used as a natural form of birth control. However, it would be incorrect to consider this method a reliable form of contraception. Using this method, men may often find it challenging to fully engage in sexual intercourse, potentially diminishing sexual pleasure. Furthermore, there is no guarantee that ejaculation into the vagina will not occur inadvertently. Sometimes, men may delay withdrawal unknowingly, allowing sperm to enter the vagina and leading to the possibility of pregnancy.
worldwide, the withdrawal method has been the most naturally preferred birth control technique for many years. As the level of development in a country decreases, the utilization of the withdrawal method for birth control tends to increase.
This method’s popularity stems from its lack of hormones, the absence of the need for a healthcare facility or a doctor, and the ability to cease its use immediately to attempt pregnancy. Additionally, its lack of side effects contributes to its popularity among the general population. Research indicates that nearly 40% of women experiencing unintended pregnancies despite not wanting them have used withdrawal as their method of contraception. This method is also known as “pulling out” and is often believed by couples who use it to provide natural protection.
Calendar method
One of the most widely used methods of birth control is preventing pregnancy through the calendar method. Women ovulate between two menstrual periods. For individuals with regular menstrual cycles, ovulation occurs approximately 14 days before the second menstrual period. Therefore, sexual intercourse is practiced during times when the likelihood of conception is low, based on the calendar.
The most fertile days for women, the day of ovulation, and the 2-3 days before that are the prime opportunities for getting pregnant. Sperm can survive in the vagina for up to 3 days, and the egg cell can live for up to 24 hours after ovulation. During these periods, the likelihood of pregnancy is significantly higher. However, irregular menstrual cycles are a crucial disadvantage of this method. A problematic menstrual cycle can undermine the success of this method. Unlike the withdrawal method, it is more reasonable to assess the effectiveness of the calendar method as a form of natural contraception.
While natural methods are widely preferred by the public, passing a definitive judgment on their effectiveness would be inaccurate.
