How effective is FAM as a form of birth control?
Highly effective! FAM is on par with the most effective birth control methods known: 99.4 -99.6% (perfect use) and 98.4% (typical use)*
*Frank-Herrmann, P., et al. February 2007. The effectiveness of a fertility awareness based method to avoid pregnancy in relation to a couple’s sexual behaviour during the fertile time: a prospective longitudinal study. Human Reproduction, Vol 22 (5), doi:10.1093/humrep/dem003
How much will FAM cost?
FAM is very affordable–after the initial investment of a thermometer (under $15) and the course, it is essentially free!
Are there side effects?
Nope–none! Aside from abstinence, Knowing Your Cycle is the only form of contraception that has absolutely zero side effects!
What does Knowing My Cycle mean?
You will know when you’re fertile and if and when you’ve ovulated, based on concrete, corroborating signs. You’ll be able to confidently identify these signs, chart them, and interpret your charts.
I don’t need birth control and I’m not trying to get pregnant. What can Knowing My Cycle do for me?
Knowing and tracking your cycle offers deeper insight and connection with your body and its rhythms, as well as providing clear information about your hormonal health. It’s a profound practice for anyone who cycles, regardless of your gender or sexual activity.
Will I really be able to have unprotected PIV sex without concern of pregnancy?
Absolutely! FAM allows you to make love without worry of pregnancy during your infertile phases, while not using synthetic hormones, latex or foreign devices inserted or implanted into the body.
How does FAM help me conceive?
Knowing Your Cycle gives you the tools to discern precisely when you’re able to conceive, and the most effective timing for conception. You will also be able to tell if the necessary fertility markers are present or not.
How does Knowing My Cycle empower me?
FAM gives you the information to take your contraception into your own hands and be self-reliant. It is a structured way to connect with yourself every day and can deepen your appreciation and respect of your magical body.
Is it necessary for my partner(s) to participate?
For those that are partnered, FAM works best when your partner is on board with you. Tracking Your Cycle offers a wonderful way for partner(s) to take an active role in learning about your fertility–thus it can facilitate a deepening of intimacy and shared responsibility. It both requires and builds trust and communication.
If you’re explaining FAM to a new partner, or your partner(s) is hesitant to use FAM for contraception, remember that it may take time for them to learn how this method works and trust the science behind it.
Will FAM teach me about my hormones?
Yes. Not only will you learn how hormones govern your cycles and influence your well-being, tracking your cycle will help you to recognize any imbalances that might be present and opens doors to resolving them.
Does FAM work if my cycle is irregular?
YES! Because FAM relies on daily observations of fertility signs rather than previous cycles or inaccurate predictions, it works based on today’s information, regardless of the regularity of your cycle.
How long does it take?
Tracking Your Cycle takes less than five minutes a day.
Why is cervical fluid important?
Because it’s the water of life! For real! Cervical fluid is not only completely amazing stuff, it’s a marker of fertility. Once you understand your cervical fluid, you will not only know when you are fertile but you will easily be able to distinguish healthy cervical fluid from unhealthy discharge that could indicate infection. And it’s the water of life.
What do I do when I am fertile?
If you’re using FAM as birth control and don’t want to get pregnant, you can practice abstinence or use barrier methods. It’s also a great opportunity for sexual creativity (so much fun can be had without PIV intercourse!), and for connecting with your partner in non-sexual intimate ways. If pregnancy is not a concern, then enjoy the sweet creative energy that flows during your fertile time! If you’re trying to become pregnant, then your fertile window is go time.
Does FAM prevent against STI’s?
Knowing Your Cycle offers no protection against STIs. If you are concerned about STI’s please use a barrier method in tandem.
What impacts the effectiveness of this method?
Effectiveness relies heavily on YOU (the users), with plenty of room for less careful choices.
What is the biggest challenge of this method?
FAM requires initial studying and learning followed by disciplined daily attention. This method is outside of the societal norm, so learning to trust and have faith in your cycles (and this method) can be challenging. It also requires a steadfast commitment in order to be fully effective.
Although learning to use FAM takes time and commitment, anyone can do it. With a good instructor and a little patience, the basics are relatively simple to understand and once you have them down, you’re well on your way.