Not being on the pill doesn't make you irresponsible
When it comes to being a responsible partner in a sexual relationship, there is often a lot of pressure placed on us to be on hormonal birth control. This pressure comes from a variety of places, including healthcare providers, partners, and even friends and family. There is a pervasive idea in our culture that using hormonal birth control is the only way to be responsible when it comes to sex. However, this simply isn't true.
Birth control and fertility awareness
There are many reasons why someone might choose not to use hormonal birth control. Some people may be uncomfortable with the potential side effects, which can range from mood swings and headaches to more serious complications such as blood clots and strokes. Others may have a history of certain medical conditions that make hormonal birth control a riskier option. Still, others may simply prefer to use non-hormonal methods of birth control.
One of the most common non-hormonal methods of birth control is the condom. Condoms are highly effective when used correctly, with a perfect use failure rate of just 2%. Despite this high level of effectiveness, condoms are often seen as a less "responsible" option than hormonal birth control, particularly in the context of a committed relationship.
The fertility awareness method (FAM) is one of those options. FAM is unlike traditional non-hormonal methods because it involves observing ovulation and using a backup method (like condoms, diaphragm, perfect withdrawal) or abstaining in the fertile window. FAM is often overlooked in discussions of birth control, even non-hormonal birth control.
However, for those who are able to use FAM properly and with a fertility awareness educator, it can be a highly effective method of birth control. When used correctly, FAM has a failure rate of less than 1%, making it just as effective as many hormonal methods of birth control. Additionally, because FAM is non-hormonal, it does not come with the same risks and side effects as hormonal birth control.
Who is fertility awareness for?
Because FAM requires a degree of participation unlike hormonal birth control, it isn’t for everyone. A good candidate for FAM is someone who is willing to put in the work to thoroughly learn a method and follow the rules properly.
If you’re unable (or don’t want to) commit to the daily tracking and observation required for FAM to be effective, hormonal birth control or another non-hormonal method such as the copper IUD may be a better option.
Ultimately, the decision to use birth control is a personal one, and it should be based on individual circumstances and preferences. There is no one "right" choice when it comes to birth control, and what works for one person may not work for another. What's most important is that people are aware of all the options available to them, and that they feel empowered to make an informed decision about their sexual health.
It's also important to recognize that there is no one "right" way to be sexually responsible. While some people may choose to use hormonal birth control, others may prefer non-hormonal options. Some people may choose to use a combination of methods, such as condoms and FAM, to achieve the level of protection they are comfortable with. Ultimately, the most responsible thing you can do when it comes to sex and birth control is to make a decision that is right for you and to use it consistently and correctly.
Not being on birth control doesn't make you irresponsible. There are many non-hormonal methods of birth control that are highly effective, but not as mainstream as hormonal birth control. It's important to be aware of all the options available and to make a decision based on your individual circumstances and preferences. What's most important is that you feel empowered to make an informed decision about your sexual health and that you have access to the resources and information you need to make that decision.
Ready to learn more about fertility awareness as natural birth control? Take FAM Fundamentals free!