Shortly afterwards, I purchased a copy of Toni Weschler’s "Taking Charge of Your Fertility" and I was astounded at how very little I knew about my own reproductive system. I was actually angry that I had never been taught any of this information before, and angrier still knowing that this information is still not being taught to young girls or women today. The information provided in this book, is probably the most empowering tool women can have to decipher the language of their own bodies.
The book introduces us to FAM, the Fertility Awareness Method and clues us in to three key signposts to watch regularly through out a woman’s moon cycle. The first sign is the basal body temperature, which is taken after at least three hours of sleep and at the same time each morning. The second is cervical mucus which changes in colour, consistency and fertile quality through out the cycle. The third signpost is cervical position. Charting the daily observations made of these three signs, can give an excellent overall picture of what is occurring in each cycle. Not only can ovulation be determined with considerable precision, but our charts will also provide good insight into possible hormonal imbalances that could potentially affect our fertility. (I will include links at the bottom of this article to websites that basically describe what to look for when observing these signs).
I became fascinated with the delicate biological tapestry that is the female reproductive cycle, as I kept track of not only my own charts but observed the cyclic patterns of other women as well. There are many reasons and benefits to be found in charting, that are often different for each woman.
-“Before I started charting, I didn't pay that much attention to what my body was doing - I didn't know how long my cycles were or what day I ovulated. It's been amazing to me to find that my body does actually follow its own 'schedule,' and it's great to see what my internal system is doing at every stage of the month. I feel so much more in touch with my body!” Dee
