How effective is the Sympto-thermal method for contraception?

Correct and consistent use of the sympto-thermal method, a specific fertility awareness method, can be as effective in preventing pregnancy as hormonal methods of contraception! When you're confidently implementing this method every day, research show it's about 97-98% effective at preventing pregnancy each year, which is similar to hormonal contraceptive. That's pretty impressive, right?

But here's the deal: STM isn't a "set it and forget it" kind of thing. It requires daily commitment and and attunement to ones body. You've got to be consistent with taking and charting your temperature and checking your secretions every day. This method, doesn’t protect from STI’s so it is also recommended and super helpful to have open communication with your partner(s) and be ready to make adjustments, such as using a barrier method, if things like stress or illness throw off your cycle.

The success of STMs depends largely on the user's commitment and understanding of their fertility patterns. Unlike methods such as IUDs, which are more independent of user behavior, the effectiveness of STM's is influenced by factors such as motivation, education, confidence, partner(s) support, and behavior during the fertile phase. When solid scientific knowledge of STM is combined with professional instruction and personal commitment, it can provide a highly reliable form of contraception for those individuals for whom it is suitable.

STMs can be a fantastic option for non-hormonal birth control, but it's not for everyone. If you're curious about giving it a try, it is recommend to work with a certified fertility awareness educator (like me!), who can help you learn the ropes and make sure you're using STM in the best way possible for your reproductive desires.