How well does the calender method work?

Question

My bf and i used to use condoms but after one try without one he says he hates using condoms.Since i cant get on BC pills till July(my doc has special appointments for that)he wants to use the calender method in the mean time?But my periods are slightly irregular they can change give or take a couple of days each month?How well does this method work?

Does a few days like say 4-5 days make a big difference?

Answer 1

The calendar method, aka rhythm method, is not the most reliable method in the world (and is a subset of Natural Family Planning). Natural family planning is pretty reliable when used correctly, but its hard to use it correctly with an irregular cycle. It takes into account your basal body temperature as well as cervical mucus, cerical positioning, and history. It works by pinpointing the time that you ovulate, then avoiding intercourse for the days days surrounding ovulation. And you won't have enough time between now and July to get an accurate representation on a chart of your cycle.

Personally, I'd give him two options and let him pick one. First: sex with a condom. Second: no sex. And then before you've taken the pill long enough to rely on it as your sole method of birth control, both of you need to go and get the all clear on STDs so that you will both have the peace of mind of being sexually active with a person who is disease-free. And that's just being a responsible sexually active person.

Answer 2

The calendar (or rhythm) method is based on the fact that the *average* woman has a 28 day cycle and ovulates on day 14 of her cycle. Most women are not *average*. If you ovulate earlier or later than the average (and unless you're using an ovulation prediction kit AND charting your Basal Body Temperature, there's really no way for you to know when you've ovulated), the calendar/rhythm method is pretty much useless.

Next time you go shopping, drag your boyfriend along. Go into all the baby stores and giggle over how *cute* the clothes will look on a baby... if *that* doesn't get your boyfriend to put on a rubber, I don't know what will!

Answer 3

The calender method or rhythm method does not work. Either your bf wears a condom correctly until you can get the pill or no sex for him. Something to think about, not all people are candidates for the pill, hence the requirement for a Dr's prescription. If it happens that you are one of the un-lucky ones, talk to your Dr about options.

Answer 4

The calender method doesn't really provide any protection against pregnancy. The sperm can live in your uterus for up to seven days, and your periods are irregualar. That's a good chance of getting pregnant. Try using the female condom in the meantime. Other methods are the spermicides, diaphragm, etc.

The best protection is the male condom though. If your boyfriend's neglecting your needs, if it really worth sleeping with him?

Answer 5

Well, I am now 38 1/2 weeks pregnant due to the calendar method. I was irregular also and am not able to take bc pills. I am having my tubes tied after this one. (my third)

Answer 6

If you are irregular that is not a good method at all!!!! Can he use condoms until July??? It is only one more month, if he wont tell him he doesn't get any.

Answer 7

OK if you use it and use it right it can work. It takes using temps, CM checking, and if possible ferning test.

Answer 8

he is just lazy and dont want to put one on hes a bum.... your the one that get prego.... not him ....so he dont care... just say no darling unless your ready to start taking care of kids

Answer 9

pretty good.