How reliable is the rhythm method of contraception?
The information that you have about the so-called ‘safe period’ is roughly correct. An egg is released from the ovary roughly 14 days before the start of the next period. If the egg is not fertilised within 36-48 hours it dies, and the lining of the womb is lost some twelve days later, resulting in a period. If a woman has a regular cycle, ie 28 days from the beginning of one period to another, she will produce an egg approximately fourteen days from the start of her period. However, all these timings are only guides and the only definite part in your cycle is the fact that it will be about fourteen days from ovulation to having a period. There are many pitfalls in relying on your natural cycle for contraception, and both you and your partner need willpower to avoid having sex if it isn’t the right time of the month. If your period lasts for eight days, then using the ‘five day’ rule could result in you having intercourse just as you produce an egg and therefore getting pregnant. Simil
