The Minster Practice, Lichfield

Methods of contraception detailed on this site

Rhythm Method

This method relies on the fact that women are only fertile for a short period each month; a few days before and after ovulation - the fertile window. If ovulation can be predicted then pregnancy can be avoided. It was thought that ovulation occurred 14 days before a period occurs. So if the woman's cycle is completely regular, the first day of the period can be predicted and hence the date of ovulation and the fertile window. In most women with regular 28 day cycles this fertile window was thought to extend from day 10 to day 17 of the menstrual cycle. The first day of the period being day 1 of the current cycle.

Research published in November 2000 shows a much greater variability in the fertile window. The researchers even found that this fact was published by a German doctor in 1916! He reported 25 pregnancies which had resulted from  single acts of intercourse with soldiers on military leave. The days on which conception occurred ranged from day 2 to day 30 of the cycle. In 2003, Canadian researchers using sensitive scans that could identify follicles on the ovaries showed that some women can potentially ovulate 2 or even 3 times a month and could be fertile at any time of the day (Pierson R. Fertility and Sterility 2003; 80:116-22).

The modern research using hormone studies shows that ovulation is not limited to day 14, the variability of the fertile window is just as great in women with regular cycles and 70% of women are in their fertile window before day 10 and after day 17. There is even less predictability when the cycle is less regular such as in adolescents and women approaching the menopause.

There are few days of the menstrual cycle during which some women are not potentially fertile including the cycle day on which a period was expected to start. However, women with regular 28 day cycles are most likely to be fertile on days 8 to 15.
(This information may not apply to couples having trouble conceiving as these were not included in the study. Other research suggested that attempting to predict fertile days in these couples may not be a good idea. Intercourse two or three times each week is probably better advice)
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Male Condoms 

Learn how to use condoms:  www.free-condom-stuff.com

Durex have brought out 2 new condoms.
Performa contains benzocaine cream as a desensitiser to help control orgasm and prolong sexual excitement to help your enjoyment last longer.
Sensation has a raised dot texture to create extra pleasure and intensity.
Both are shaped to be easier to put on and be more comfortable to wear. The lubricant is NOT spermicidal so would be better combined with spermicidal cream or pessaries used by the woman.

Avanti was the first male polyurethane condom. As there is no latex, it is ideal if you have an allergy to rubber. It is non-allergenic and thinner than most latex condoms for a natural feeling. Again the lubricant is not spermicidal.

extra safe is spermicidally lubricated with nonoxynol-9 for extra reassurance which is probably why it is the most popular condom in the Durex range. It is shaped to be easier to put on and provide a better fit and feel during lovemaking.

See the full range and order online at a discount at www.durex.co.uk

There are other manufacturers of condoms. A major manufacturer is Ansell who market Mates.

Female condoms

The female condom is designed to line the vagina. It has two rings to keep it in place. The smaller ring at the closed end of the condom fits inside the vagina. The one at the open end stays outside. Female condoms are available from the same outlets as male condoms.
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