Rhythm Method – Is It An Effective Birth Control Method?

The Rhythm method, also known as Calendar based method and Standard day’s method, uses a woman’s menstrual history to predict ovulation. It is a natural method of birth control, where sex is avoided a few days before, during, and a few days after the time ovulation is expected to occur.

How effective is it?

The effectiveness of the rhythm method will depend largely on how well it is practiced. It will depend on how predictable your periods are. You will need to chart out a history of at least 8 cycles, to give an average for predicting menstruation days. If done perfectly, you can expect a success rate of 92%. However, due to variations in cycles, the actual effectiveness is less than 87%.

How do I start?

You can visit your family planning centre or doctor to discuss about the rhythm method. They will advise you on how to carry out the calculations, and can provide you with a chart. You can also use your own calendar to record the data. The chart will be filled out by you, starting from the first day of your menstrual period until the next period starts.

Because the cycles can vary, you should continue to circle each Day 1 when the bleeding starts, and record the duration of your last cycle. This should be done for up to 8 months. Once you have a history, you can then start using the rhythm method.

Disadvantages

It does not provide a high level of birth control.

Since women periods may vary every month, it makes it hard to use the rhythm method.

Any change in the cycle will affect the calculation of ovulation.

It is not effective at preventing the spreading of STDs. 

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