How many days are available for intercourse in a typical 28-day cycle?
Results from a World Health Organisation trial of the Method indicate that about half the days of a 28-day cycle are generally available for intercourse. Days of abstinence include the menstrual period, the time when mucus indicates possible fertility until the Peak is recognised and the three days after the Peak. The Rules mean what they say – any departure from the guidelines may result in conception. In short cycles fewer than half the days may be available for intercourse, whilst in long cycles, such as when breastfeeding, considerably more days are available. You say that sperm can live for up to five days. What if I don’t have five days of fertility to warn me that ovulation is approaching? Sperm cannot pass through the cervix or maintain their fertilising capacity without mucus, because the vaginal environment is hostile to them. So, if you are fertile for only two days, or even half a day of the cycle, sperm vitality will be reduced correspondingly. However many days you are aw
