→ Natural/Traditional Methods (Calendar Method)
→ Natural methods work on the principle of avoiding chances of ovum and sperms meeting.
→ (a) Periodic abstinence :
→ Periodic abstinence is one such method in which the couples avoid or abstain from coitus from day 10 to 17 of the menstrual cycle when ovulation could be expected.
→ As chances of fertilisation are very high during this period, it is called the fertile period.
→ Therefore, by abstaining from coitus during this period, conception could be prevented.
→ (b) Withdrawal or coitus interruptus :
→ Withdrawal or coitus interruptus is another method in which the male partner withdraws his penis from the vagina just before ejaculation so as to avoid insemination.
→ (c) Lactational amenorrhea:
→ Lactational amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) method is based on the fact that ovulation and therefore the cycle do not occur during the period of intense lactation following parturition.
→ Therefore, as long as the mother breast-feeds the child, chances of conception are almost nil.
→ As no medicines or devices are used in these methods, side effects are almost nil. Chances of failure, though, of this method are also high.