Sexually active individuals who wish to prevent pregnancy need to be informed of birth control alternatives. If you are wondering how to avoid pregnancy naturally, rest assured that there is a variety of contraceptive methods available. In fact, the term “natural family planning” (NFP) refers to several contraceptive techniques that are used to prevent pregnancy with just a basic understanding of the human body and its regular rhythms and cycles. Here are some of them.
1. The Barrier Methods
To prevent pregnancy, the male partner can use condoms. In fact, the use of condoms is known to be 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. For this, it is important for the male partner to ensure that the condom is properly rolled onto the penis and is kept on the whole time, from start to finish. Using a condom not only helps prevent pregnancy, but also is the only form of contraception that offers protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
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Another barrier method is the use of a diaphragm by the female partner. A soft silicone cup called a cervical cap is inserted well within the vagina. This cap prevents sperms from accessing eggs by covering the cervix. Before each usage, ensure that the diaphragm is treated with spermicide.
The contraceptive sponge is another birth control technique, which is inserted deeply within the vagina to limit access to the uterus. It is made of polyurethane foam and contains spermicide.
2. Fertility Awareness Methods
FAMs (fertility awareness methods) are strategies to monitor your menstrual cycle to determine when you are most fertile and have a high chance of becoming pregnant. You can abstain from having intercourse during the times when the female is most fertile. Abstinence does not mean the lack of intimacy. Even while the woman is ovulating, you can cuddle, kiss and have oral sex.
If you have just delivered a baby, you may wish to prevent pregnancy. Even the best maternity hospitals in Delhi recommend a gap of at least two years between pregnancies. Ovulation does not occur while you are lactating. So, if you are actively breastfeeding, it is a good method of birth control. This is how avoid pregnancy naturally.
3. Withdrawal
Another natural approach of preventing pregnancy is the withdrawal or pull-out method. Here, the male partner withdraws shortly before ejaculation. This form of birth control prevents sperms from reaching the vagina. To prevent pregnancy, ejaculate away from the vagina. Pull out must occur before any semen is released, since even a small amount can result in pregnancy.
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If you are still worried about how to avoid pregnancy naturally, feel free to consult your gynecologist. Your doctor will be able to recommend the best options for you and your partner. The gynecologist can also guide you in case you believe you are already pregnant. There are several things to know, from exercising to fruits to avoid during pregnancy.