Title: The fertility awareness method: extent of use, potential, and research needs.

POPLINE Document Number: 107745

Author(s):

Williamson N

Source citation:

In: Natural family planning: current knowledge and new strategies for the 1990s. Proceedings of a conference, Part II, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, December 10-14, 1990, edited by John T. Queenan, Victoria H. Jennings, Jeffrey M. Spieler, Helena von Hertzen. [Washington, D.C.], Georgetown University, Institute for International Studies in Natural Family Planning, [1991]. :145.

Abstract:

Little research has been done on the fertility awareness method (FAM) in developed countries and even less in developing countries. Some of the questions addressed in this discussion included: Is FAM of sufficient promise and interest to be a concern? Is more information required on its acceptability, effectiveness, and continuation rates? The research literature was briefly reviewed and new studies mentioned. When comparing "pure" natural family planning (NFP)--that is, the use of abstinence during the fertile period--with mixed methods--such as the use of barriers during the fertile period--the results have generally found that the mixed method has slightly higher pregnancy rates. Mixed use may be underreported because the users may be embarrassed or afraid to mention barrier use. Not everyone liked the term "fertility awareness method." There was also disagreement about whether FAM should be standardized and whether users should be taught how to use condoms correctly. Some felt it was cumbersome to use two methods and that people using barriers might become lax in their monitoring of the fertile period and their fertility signs. It was suggested that Contraceptive Technology (journal) describe FAM in the next updated issue. The following research questions and priorities were proposed: Who is using FAM and why? What is the use effectiveness of FAM by user characteristics (education, religion, duration of use, quality of education)? What reasons are given when people do not use the method successfully? Does fertility awareness education improve condom use? How do NFP and FAM compare when studied prospectively? (full text)

Keywords:

Natural Family Planning
Barrier Methods
Fertile Period
Use-Effectiveness
Method Acceptability
Family Planning, Behavioral Methods
Family Planning
Contraceptive Methods
Contraception
Reproduction
Contraceptive Effectiveness
Contraceptive Usage