Are You Looking for Natural Birth Control?
Are you looking for something natural
as an alternative to pills and devices?
Are you looking for a method
of birth control that is ...
- free from artificial hormones?
- ecologically friendly?
- a healthy alternative?
- reversible?
- ethical?
- economical?
and
- highly effective?
What is Natural Birth Control?
That is a good question. Natural Birth Control is an imprecise term, which means different things to different people. Don't you agree that the gift of your sexuality is too important for imprecision? A more precisely defined term, Natural Family Planning, accurately describes what we offer.
Read on and discover whether Natural Family Planning is what you are looking for. What does Serena Offer? Serena teaches Natural Family Planning (NFP), which has been defined by the World Health Organization as: "methods for planning or avoiding pregnancies by observation of the natural signs and symptoms of the fertile and infertile phase of the menstrual cycle. It is implicit in the definition of natural family planning, when used to avoid conception that drugs, devices and surgical procedures are not used, there is abstinence from sexual intercourse during the fertile phase of the menstrual cycle, and the act of intercourse, when it occurs, is complete."*
*Reference: Natural Family Planning: An Update, Christine M. Derzko
Canadian Family Physician, 1986 September;
Journal List > Can Fam Physician > v.32; Sep 1986 Effectiveness compared to contraceptive methods International authorities indicate that the effectiveness of the Sympto-Thermal Method of Natural Family Planning, when used competently to prevent pregnancy, is comparable to that of the contraceptive pill and the IUD. It is more effective than the condom, the diaphragm, the cervical cap and spermicides.
Serena teaches the Sympto-Thermal Method (STM) which is the most effective natural method. Effective Natural Family Planning Requires Motivation and Knowledge The use-effectiveness of the Sympto-Thermal Method is dependent on how motivated the couple is to constantly and carefully follow all the method's rules. For the most satisfactory and effective experience with the Sympto-Thermal Method, we strongly encourage couples to meet with and be trained by a qualified accredited Natural Family Planning teacher-couple. They will benefit from their accurate knowledge and instruction in the application of the method. Periodic Abstinence Like all natural methods, the Sympto-Thermal Method’s effectiveness is due to the fact that couples who do not wish to become pregnant have sexual intercourse only during the infertile time of the cycle.
At first glance this period of abstinence looks like a drawback to NFP and indeed most couples will experience some frustration. Despite this, many have found the pattern of abstinence and gratification inherent in the method, a great benefit. So how can we explain this apparent contradiction?
One reason is very simple. Just as food tastes better when we are hungry, so a little abstinence makes the eventual union sweeter. Similarly couples, who know that a time of abstaining is coming, are more likely to make time to come together while they can. Surveys show little difference, between couples using NFP and couples who are using contraception, in how often they have intercourse.
Less obvious are the benefits of sexual tension. Commonly this is a time of increased awareness of your partner's sexual attractiveness. This can translate into increased attentiveness and desire for intimacy. Many couples report more communication during this uniquely romantic time. They find it provides opportunities to grow in love.
Still, despite these potential advantages, this period will sometimes be difficult. At these times it is worth reflecting that self discipline is a necessary part to love. It tells your partner that she or he is worth waiting for. After all, periods of separation or illness come to most relationships and we all have to learn how to handle them.
Many of the most rewarding things in life, education, career, friendships, sports, children, even hobbies can involve self discipline, deferral of pleasure, discomfort and frustration. Perhaps we should not be surprised if this is also true of sexual intimacy. Supplementing natural family planning with barrier methods Couples might be tempted to use barrier contraceptives such as condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, spermicides, or withdrawal during the fertile time. Does this practise contribute to the effectiveness of the method?
Studies show that this practise doesn't increase effectiveness. All barrier methods are less effective than STM, so using them during the most fertile time will in fact give the couple the effectiveness of the barrier method used.
Advantages Choosing the Sympto-Thermal Method is choosing a natural method that is not only effective but also brings personal satisfaction, is cost effective and is ecological. The Sympto-Thermal Method gives the satisfaction of self knowledge, and admiration for the way nature works. It has no negative side effects and is user-friendly when a couple becomes well-informed, is aware of their options, and is given the support which they need until they master the method. It leads to harmony between the couple, deepens intimacy, renews romance and enriches their family life. It also gives the opportunity to develop greater self-control, and to increase and diversify their sexual satisfaction.
Is this what you are looking for?
Note: The Sympto-Thermal Method does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.