MYTHS IN GYNAECOLOGY & OBSTETRICS – SAFE PERIOD:
MYTH: – SAFE PERIOD IS REALLY SAFE
- Safe period was considered as a natural contraceptive method for many years. Many couples who don’t want to have child immediately after marriage or who are reluctant to use available contraceptive methods because of misconceptions or some personal or religious reasons are inclined to use it as a family planning method.
- The idea behind this is to avoid intercourse around the time of ovulation in females. It is based on the fact that average female ovulates once a month around 12th to 16th day of menstrual cycle. If intercourse happens around this time of cycle chances of pregnancy are high. Hence, from 2 days prior to 12th day till 2 days after 16th day of cycle is generally considered as “Unsafe period” (10th to 18th day of cycle). The remaining days of cycle are deemed as “safe period” for having intercourse without using any precautions.
- Advantages: – It is totally natural, inexpensive method of contraception. The couple can enjoy their intimacy without any “hindrance”.
MYTH BUSTER
- Disadvantages: – The major disadvantage of this method is, not all females have regular monthly menstrual cycles. Some females have short cycles in which ovulation may occur early, whereas some females have long cycles in which ovulation may occur late. Calculation of “safe period” becomes tricky in such females. Another disadvantage is, in a given month ovulation can occur earlier or later in patients who normally have regular periods. This will obviously lead to failure of this method.
- Hence we at LMCC advise all our patients seeking effective & safe contraception to consult us regarding this vital matter. We will offer you contraceptive solutions which are safe, economical and effective.