Natural methods work on the principle of avoiding chances of ovum and sperms meeting.
Periodic abstinence – couples avoid or abstain from coitus from day 10 to 17 of the menstrual cycle when ovulation could be expected ie. during the fertile period. Thus conception could be prevented.
Withdrawal or coitus interruptus – male partner withdraws his penis from the vagina just before ejaculation to avoid insemination.
Lactational amenorrhea (absence of menstruation)- ovulation and menstrual cycle do not occur during the period of intense lactation post child birth(for a period of about 6 months)as long as the mother breast-feeds the child fully, there are negligible chances of conception. chances of failure of this method are high.
Barrier methods-ovum & sperms are prevented from physically meeting with the help of barriers. Such methods are available for both males and females.
Condoms – barriers made of thin rubber/ latex sheath ,used to cover the penis in the male or vagina and cervix in the female, just before coitus so that the ejaculated semen would not enter into the female reproductive tract to prevent conception. ‘Nirodh’ is a popular brand of condom for the male.It also protects the user from contracting STDs and AIDS. Both the male and the female condoms are disposable & can self-inserted by the user.
Diaphragms, cervical caps and vaults are also barriers made of rubber that are inserted into the female reproductive tract to cover the cervix during coitus. They prevent conception by blocking the entry of sperms through the cervix. They are reusable.
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