We’re often asked if Natural Cycles is better than the pill or another contraceptive method.
Birth control choice is important to us, and we believe that there is no one method that is better than another, but rather a selection of different methods, each with its own advantages and challenges. Each woman is different, and each woman has her own objectives from what she needs from her birth control.
The most important thing is for women to be able to make informed decisions about their birth control choices. This means accessing all the facts, having conversations around different methods, and considering the lifestyle and personal goals. It’s important to remember that what works for you might not work for your friend and vice versa.
The contraceptive landscape shifted significantly in the 1960s with the introduction of the contraceptive pill. It offered women more freedom to pursue new paths and also unlocked the possibility of sexual pleasure without unintended pregnancy. While there are some health risks and drawbacks associated with oral contraceptives, we cannot deny the revolutionary part the pill has played in giving women greater control of their bodies. (1)
However, a woman’s contraceptive needs change throughout her lifetime, and it’s common for us as women to switch birth control several times over our fertile years. Lifestyle choices, past experiences, personal preferences, and the application of the method itself can all shape our decision to switch birth control methods.
Evidence shows that a woman who has actively chosen a method of contraception and is satisfied with it is more likely to use it consistently and correctly. Whereas, a woman who chose a method that’s not in line with her preferences may be less likely to use it correctly or might discontinue using this method altogether. (2) All methods have their limitations, but it’s crucial we find methods that best fit our own preferences.
Natural Cycles is 93% effective with typical use and 98% with perfect use (read more about birth control effectiveness here). Natural Cycles requires the use of condoms or abstention on red (fertile) days - it also suits best those who have a morning routine, as Natural Cycles requires you to take your temperature most mornings when you wake. Women looking for a highly effective birth control method should consider the IUDs or implants, as these long-acting birth control methods offer >99% effectiveness.
Our mission at Natural Cycles centers on empowering women with the tools they need to be in charge of their health. This means we do not advocate for any one form of birth control but rather provide evidence-based facts and information about our product so our users and potential users have the tools to make informed decisions about their contraception, whatever method that might be.
- Trussell, J. & Jordan, B. (2006). Reproductive health risks in perspective. Contraception, 73, 437-439.
2. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2015 Jul;213(1):46.e1-6. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.01.051. Epub 2015 Jan 30.