The most robust data available on the Symptothermal Double-Check Method is from a clinical trial with results published in 2007, authored by lead researcher Petra Frank-Herrmann (See PMID: 17314078). The study followed 900 women over 17,638 menstrual cycles across 20 years using the Sensiplan Symptothermal Method. The study showed that the method was up to 99.6% effective with perfect use for users that were abstaining from sexual contact during the fertile window and 99.4% effective with perfect use for users who were using condoms during the fertile window. The researchers of the study concluded the method effectiveness is comparable to the method effectiveness of oral contraceptives (via perfect use).

Unfortunately, we do not have typical use effectiveness rates for Symptothermal Double-Check Methods because typical use rates are most reliable when conducted via large population-based surveys and the number of method users for various Fertility Awareness-based Methods simply isn’t big enough to yield statistical validity.

It is important to note that participants of the study mentioned above were trained by certified instructors and were specifically using the Sensiplan method. Other symptothermal double check method effectiveness rates may vary slightly. The custom charting approach I teach utilizes Sensiplan temperature rules with slightly different cervical mucus protocol that is rooted in other research. To learn more, please book a discovery call and we can dig in more together.

No no and no! The rhythm method is a method that uses the calendar to identify potential fertility. However, our bodies are not machines and the length of our cycle and timing of ovulation will likely fluctuate slightly (or in some cases significantly) from cycle to cycle with the ebbs and flows and stressers of life. Thus, the rhythm method does not have a high effectiveness for preventing pregnancy. Unlike the rhythm method, FAM uses the real-time biomarkers to interpret fertility status on a daily basis, which is why the method, when practiced correctly, is considered to be highly effective.

Unfortunately, the rhythm method is sometimes lumped in with fertility awareness based methods, leading people to think they are the same. For example, a 2006 – 2010 United States National Survey of Family Growth reported a 85% typical use effectiveness estimate for all Fertility Awareness-based Methods combined. However, over 80% of respondents were using the Rhythm method, significantly skewing the effectiveness rate of other effective fertility awareness-based methods.

The 85% typical use figure is referenced in the 21st edition of Contraceptive Technology published in 2018. This medical handbook is utilized as a central reference for U.S. doctors for contraceptive education. Unfortunately, as a result, many doctors are not properly educated on Fertility Awareness-based Methods and often confuse highly effective FABMs with the Rhythm Method, misleading their patients on the effectiveness and viability of these methods as a result.

Charting you cycle and identifying your fertile window aenables you to correctly time intercourse for the best chances of conceiving (did you know there are only 6 days a month that you are actually fertile?!). Charting your cycle can also support you to identify hormonal imbalances that may be impacting your fertility. Our bodies and menstrual cycles speak to us and when we tune in, we can actually gain robust insights into our health. For example, if your progesterone is low, we can usually determine it simple by looking at your chart, without a single test. This then enables you to identify any areas your body needs support to prepare the body for conception.

One of the best parts about FAM is that once you learn the method, you have that knowledge for life. No relying on pharmaceutical and insurance companies or precarious reproductive health laws.

All you need to practice the symptothermal method is a basal body thermometer. Prices can vary, but you really don’t need anything fancy. A $15 bbt thermometer like this will do just fine.

I recommend my clients use the Read your Body app to chart with, which is 15 USD per year. If you prefer using a paper chart, that is great too!

I get it, with everything already going on in your life, you don;t want to add another complex daily chore into the mix. Charting your cycle doesn’t take much time each day, and can become a seamless part of your daily habits.

Charting requires:

-a few minutes every morning to take your basal body temperature immediately upon waking

-checking the toilet paper for cervical mucus when you use the bathroom

-noticing sensation at the vulva as you move about your normal daily activities

-a few minutes putting this data into your chart each day

Charting is something that I look forward to every day because it allows me to connect to my body and my menstrual phase and assures my reproductive sovereignty.

Absolutely! Fertility Awarness can help you navigate irregular cycles and can give you an understanding of what is going on so you know if and when you are ovulate and subsequently when your period will arrive.

Hormonal birth control primarily works by delivering consistent daily low levels of synthetic hormones to the body. This disrupts the Hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis (i.e. the connection between the brain and ovaries) resulting in a lack of ovulation with most hormonal brith control options (progestin-only methods are sometimes an exception). If you are not ovulating, you will not see any temperature shift and likely won’t see cervical mucus shifts. If you wish to come off of hormonal contraceptives soon, beginning your learning journey while you are preparing for this transition can be a great option. I can also offer coaching on hormonal health support to prepare the body for this transition. If you are on a progestin-only form of birth control like a hormonal IUD and want to determine if you are ovulating, you can learn this by using FAM.

Feel free to book a discovery call here to explore your unique situation with me.

I am trained across multiple methods, including Natural Family Planning Teachers Association of the UK (NFPTA) and FEMM. I have also participated in the Fertility Knowledge Collective.

I primarily teach the Symptothermal Double Check Method using NFPTA/Sensiplan temp rules and slightly adapted mucus categories and application based on my certifications and teaching experience.