When it comes to preventing pregnancy, not all methods involve devices or hormones - some rely entirely on understanding and managing fertility through behaviour.

Behavioural birth control methods require awareness, consistency, and self-control to effectively reduce the risk of pregnancy.

These methods can be a good fit for individuals looking for a natural approach to contraception or those who can't use or prefer non-hormonal options. While they can be highly effective when used correctly, they require dedication, knowledge of the reproductive cycle, and, in many cases, cooperation from both partners.

Whether you’re interested in fertility awareness, withdrawal, or abstinence, understanding how these methods work can empower you to take control of your reproductive health.

Below, you'll find links to in-depth explanations of each method, along with the benefits and drawbacks to consider before deciding if behavioural birth control is right for you.

What Is Behavioural Birth Control?

Behavioural birth control refers to contraception methods that rely on specific actions or awareness to prevent pregnancy, rather than using hormonal, barrier, or surgical options.

These methods often involve tracking fertility signs, timing intercourse, or abstaining from sex during certain periods. Since they don’t require medical intervention, they are often considered natural and accessible, though they require diligence and consistency to be effective.

How Do Behavioural Birth Control Methods Work?

Each behavioural method works by either avoiding sperm exposure to an egg or by timing sexual activity in a way that reduces the likelihood of conception. Some methods, like withdrawal, aim to prevent sperm from entering the reproductive tract, while others, like fertility awareness, help individuals determine when they are most and least fertile.

Abstinence, the only method that is 100% effective, involves refraining from sexual intercourse entirely.

What Are the Various Behavioural Birth Control Options?

• Withdrawal Method (Pull-Out Method): The penis is withdrawn from the vagina before ejaculation to prevent sperm from entering the reproductive tract.
• Fertility Awareness Methods (FAMs): Tracking ovulation through body temperature, cervical mucus, and menstrual cycle patterns to determine when pregnancy is most likely.
• Outercourse and Abstinence: Engaging in non-penetrative sexual activities or abstaining from intercourse altogether to eliminate the risk of pregnancy.

These methods vary in effectiveness, and many require a deep understanding of one’s body, cycle, and self-control to be used reliably.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Behavioural Birth Control

Behavioural birth control offers several advantages, but it also has some limitations that should be considered when choosing the right one for you.

Benefits:

• Hormone-Free: Ideal for individuals who prefer to avoid hormonal contraception.

• No Medical Side Effects: Does not cause hormonal side effects like mood changes, nausea, or weight fluctuations.

• Encourages Body Awareness: Helps individuals learn more about their fertility and menstrual cycles.

• Low to No Cost: No prescriptions, medical procedures, or recurring costs.

Disadvantages:

• Requires High Commitment: Consistency, accuracy, and discipline are crucial for effectiveness.

• Not Suitable for Everyone: May not be reliable for people with irregular cycles or those who struggle with self-control during sexual activity.

• No Protection Against STIs: Emergency contraception prevents pregnancy but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

• Lower Effectiveness Rates: More room for human error, making unintended pregnancy more likely compared to other birth control methods.

Behavioural Birth Control Options

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Withdrawal/Pulling Out
(coming soon)

Fertility Awareness
(coming soon)

Outercourse
(coming soon)

Abstinence
(coming soon)