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Billings Ovulation Method

© Kristin Steinmetz

3. Note the presence and quality of cervical mucus. Is mucus present? Make up your own descriptors for your mucus (i.e., pasty, creamy, egg white etc.) as you use the method. The wetter and stretchier your mucus, the more fertile you are. 4. Do Kegels before bed and make one last check. 5. Record your observation on a chart at the end of the day. Technically, if you’re not recording your observations, then you’re not following the method.

TO AVOID PREGNANCY. . . *abstain during menstruation (since bleeding could obscure cervical mucus) *on dry days (no cervical mucus at any time in the day), have intercourse on alternate evenings (so observations won’t be compromised by semen or arousal fluid) *abstain in the mornings before ovulation because cervical mucus may appear later in the day *do Kegels after intercourse *consider yourself fertile until the evening of the 4th dry day in a row after the mucus, wetness, or spotting ends. 85% of the time, ovulation occurs on the last mucus day or the day after, but 10-15% of the time, ovulation occurs up to 2-3 days before or after the last mucus day. So, it pays to be extra cautious. *if you are ever confused or unsure, abstain!

TO BECOME PREGNANT. . . *have intercourse during times of copious, wet, slippery, stretchy mucus *the last mucus day and the day after are usually the most fertile, but it doesn’t hurt to try 2-3 days after the last mucus, too

ADVANTAGE OF THE BILLINGS METHOD The advantages of the Billings Ovulation Method are obvious – no equipment is needed except pen and paper. It’s a perfect method for places in the world where thermometers or birth control supplies are not available (assuming supportive, cooperative spouses are available, of course!). It’s also a wonderful method for women who don’t have reliable cycles/temperatures, such as breastfeeding women, menopausal women, PCOSers, etc.

DISADVANTAGES OF THE BILLINGS METHOD Women who have short cycles and long menstrual periods may have to abstain almost every day to prevent pregnancy. They will find very few “safe” days. Women with confusing mucus patterns will need the help of a teacher (see links) to use the method effectively. During times of temporary confusing mucus patterns (summer dehydration, frequent swimming or showering, etc.) take extra care.

If you have experience with, or any comments or insights about, the Billings Ovulation Method, please start a discussion below. I’d love to hear from you!