Natural family planning

Natural family planning is when a woman works out when she’s in the most fertile phase of her monthly cycle (when she’s most likely to get pregnant), and avoids sex without contraception during this time.

Natural family planning doesn’t mean “withdrawal” (removing the penis before the man ejaculates). You should only use natural family planning if you have been taught by a specialist, so you can use it effectively. Our staff are trained to advise on natural family planning.

Every woman is different and natural family planning needs to be thoroughly understood in order to be effective.

Natural family planning will not protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The best way to protect yourself from STIs is to use a condom every time you have sex.

Further information on natural family planning and contraception

For detailed information on natural family planning, please see the NHS website.

See the FPA website for a range of downloadable leaflets on contraception.