Introduction:

Family planning refers to the process of planning, spacing, and preventing unintended pregnancies. There are various approaches to building a family, and individuals can choose the one that suits their lifestyle, medical history, and preference. In this article, we will discuss the different approaches to family planning for you and your partner, including natural family planning, birth control options, and more.

Natural family planning:

Natural family planning, also known as fertility awareness-based methods, involves monitoring the menstrual cycle to determine the fertile and non-fertile days. There are different ways of monitoring the menstrual cycle, including:

1.   Basal body temperature method:

 This method involves taking the body temperature every morning before getting out of bed. The basal body temperature rises slightly after ovulation, indicating that the fertile period has ended.

2.   Cervical mucus method:

This method involves monitoring the changes in the cervical mucus. The mucus becomes thin, clear, and stretchy during the fertile period, indicating that ovulation is imminent.

3.   Calendar method:

This method involves tracking the menstrual cycle on a calendar. By knowing the length of the menstrual cycle and the expected date of ovulation, couples can avoid sexual intercourse during the fertile period.

Advantages of natural family planning:

●     No side effects:

Natural family planning methods do not involve the use of hormones or devices, which means that there are no side effects.

●     Cost-effective:

Natural family planning methods are relatively inexpensive, and couples can learn the methods by attending classes or using online resources.

●     Promotes communication:

Natural family planning methods require the couple to communicate and work together to avoid pregnancy, which can strengthen their relationship.

 

Disadvantages of natural family planning:

 

●     Requires self-discipline:

Natural family planning methods require self-discipline and consistency, which can be challenging for some couples. 

●     Not effective for everyone:

Natural family planning methods are not effective for everyone, and the failure rate can be higher than other methods of contraception.

●     May not be suitable for irregular cycles:

Natural family planning methods may not be suitable for women with irregular cycles or those who are breastfeeding.

Birth control options:

 

Birth control options refer to the methods that prevent pregnancy. A study featured on Cambridge University Press shows that there is often a lack of appropriate contraceptive use, possibly due to lack of knowledge of, or access to, birth control services, so educating couples is vital. There are different types of birth control options, including:

1.    Hormonal methods:

Hormonal methods of contraception involve the use of hormones to prevent ovulation or thicken the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg. Examples of hormonal methods include:

• Birth control pills
• Birth control patch
• Birth control ring
• Depo-Provera injection
• Implant

2.    Barrier methods:

Barrier methods of contraception involve the use of a physical barrier to prevent sperm from reaching the egg. Examples of barrier methods include:

• Condoms (male and female)
• Diaphragm
• Cervical cap

3.    Intrauterine devices (IUDs):

IUDs are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are two types of IUDs: hormonal and non-hormonal.

4.    Sterilization:

Sterilization is a permanent method of contraception that involves blocking the fallopian tubes (tubal ligation) or vas deferens (vasectomy) to prevent sperm and egg from meeting.

Advantages of birth control options:

• Highly effective: Birth control options are highly effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly and consistently.
• Can improve menstrual cycle: Hormonal methods of contraception can improve the menstrual cycle and reduce menstrual pain.
• Can reduce the risk of certain cancers: Hormonal methods of contraception can reduce the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer.

 

Disadvantages of birth control options:

●      May have side effects:

 Hormonal methods of contraception may have side effects such as nausea, headaches, weight gain, and mood changes.

●      Requires consistent use:

Barrier methods of contraception require consistent use and may be less effective if not used correctly.

●      May not protect against sexually transmitted infections:

Birth control options do not protect against sexually transmitted infections, and individuals may need to use condoms in addition to other methods to reduce the risk of infection.

Other approaches to family planning:

Apart from natural family planning and birth control options, there are other approaches to family planning, including:

●      Emergency contraception:

Emergency contraception is a form of birth control that is used after unprotected sex or when a contraceptive method has failed. There are two types of emergency contraception: the morning-after pill and the copper IUD.

●      Fertility treatments:

Fertility treatments are used to assist couples who are having difficulty conceiving. Examples of fertility treatments include in vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), and fertility drugs.For these it is really important to select the best ivf clinic in the world

●      Sterilization reversal:

Sterilization reversal is a surgical procedure that is used to reverse a previous sterilization procedure. The success of the procedure depends on various factors, including the age of the woman, the type of sterilization procedure, and the length of time since the procedure.

 

Conclusion:

Family planning for you and your partner is an essential aspect of reproductive health and allows individuals to plan and space their pregnancies according to their preferences. There are different approaches to family planning, including natural family planning, birth control options, and other methods. Each approach has its advantages and disadvantages, and individuals can choose the one that suits their lifestyle and medical history. It is essential to discuss family planning options with a healthcare provider to make an informed decision about the best approach to use.

 

Like these tips for family planning for you and your partner? See some more of my health and fitness posts here