North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

Which Natural Family Planning Methods are considered the most effective?

1. Rhythm method and cervical cap

2. Ovulation method (Billings method) and sympto-thermal method

3. Calendar method and withdrawal

4. Cervical mucus method and basal body temperature method

The correct answer is: Ovulation method (Billings method) and sympto-thermal method

The ovulation method, commonly referred to as the Billings method, and the sympto-thermal method are recognized for their high effectiveness in natural family planning. The Billings method focuses on observing changes in cervical mucus, which can indicate fertile days. This allows individuals to identify the optimal times for conception or to avoid pregnancy based on mucus patterns that shift throughout the menstrual cycle. The sympto-thermal method combines multiple observations to assess fertility signs, such as changes in basal body temperature and cervical mucus. The increase in basal body temperature after ovulation is a reliable indicator that can help individuals determine when they are most fertile. Together, these methods provide a comprehensive approach that utilizes both physiological signs and temperature monitoring, leading to higher efficacy in preventing unintended pregnancies when practiced correctly. In comparison, the other methods listed might have varying degrees of reliability, but they don't utilize the same level of observation and confirmation that makes the methods in the correct answer more effective for managing fertility.