Free birth control? Check
No weird side effects? Check
Easy to access? Check
No daily pill to take? Check

Does it sound too good to be true? Yes, of course. But it’s not. It’s the natural family planning method. And through technology it’s much easier to follow and understand than it ever was before.

What You’ll Need

Basically what you need is a precise thermometer called a basal body thermometer. You can get from several different retailers for under $20. It has an extra digit which is what makes it more precise. You’ll also need a way of tracking your temperature.

How To Track Your Cycle

Tracking your temperature with a basal body thermometer is necessary in order to distinguish when you’re ovulating and when you’re not. Technology makes tracking easy with many period tracker and ovulation apps available. Some apps you may need to pay a monthly service or one time download fee but most are free.

It’s also a good idea to mention to your doctor that you’d like to try natural family planning to avoid pregnancy. If your doctor is unable to give you quality information do not be afraid to reach out to a different doctor or try a local health center or pregnancy clinic.

How It Works

When you are able to distinguish when you’re ovulating through daily (preferably morning) temperature checks then you’ll need to avoid intercourse during this time. Ovulation is your fertile period during your cycle when your egg is released and ready to be fertilized by a sperm cell. If you do not have intercourse during this time there is no egg that has been released and so the likelihood of becoming pregnant is extremely low.

With so many negative and scary side effects by taking birth control a more natural method is much welcomed in my opinion.