The Sympto Thermal Method is a popular form of natural family planning that involves tracking a woman's basal body temperature and cervical mucus to determine when she is fertile. The spelling of Sympto Thermal Method is pronounced /ˈsɪmp.təʊ ˈθɜː.məl ˈmɛθəd/ and it is derived from two words: "sympto" meaning symptoms and "thermal" referring to temperature. By combining the two, the Sympto Thermal Method provides an effective way to avoid or achieve pregnancy without the use of synthetic contraceptives.
The sympto-thermal method is a natural method of fertility awareness that allows individuals to track and interpret various physical signs and symptoms of their menstrual cycle in order to determine fertility and plan or prevent pregnancy. This method combines the monitoring of basal body temperature (BBT) with the observation of other fertility signs, such as cervical mucus and changes in the cervix.
By recording these observations on a daily basis, the sympto-thermal method helps individuals identify the onset and duration of ovulation, as well as the fertile and infertile periods within their cycle. This information can be used to achieve pregnancy by timing intercourse during the fertile window or to avoid pregnancy by abstaining from intercourse during this period.
The sympto-thermal method relies on the fact that the body experiences subtle changes throughout the menstrual cycle due to hormonal fluctuations. For example, BBT tends to increase slightly after ovulation due to increased levels of progesterone. Cervical mucus also changes in consistency and volume, becoming clear, slippery, and stretchy around the time of ovulation.
The comprehensive analysis of these symptoms and observations helps individuals understand their unique pattern of fertility, making the sympto-thermal method an effective and reliable natural family planning method. However, it is important to note that this method requires consistent and accurate monitoring, as well as proper training to correctly interpret the fertility indicators.