The menstrual cycle consists of fertile and infertile periods. The fertile window is the period when a woman is most fertile and likely to become pregnant — typically around the days preceding and immediately following ovulation. By being able to identify the symptoms of fertility, you may plan or avoid pregnancy without medicines or devices.

The Standard Days Method identifies a specific range of days in the menstrual cycle when a woman is most likely to be fertile. For those with regular cycles lasting between 26 and 32 days, days 8 through 19 are considered the most fertile. To avoid pregnancy, it's recommended to either abstain from intercourse or use a barrier method during this time. If you're trying to conceive, having intercourse on these days — daily or every other day — can improve your chances. This method is most effective for women whose menstrual cycles consistently fall within the 26–32 day range.

The cervical mucus method is the recognition of changes in the mucus secreted by the cervix and in the appearance and feel of the mucus. Before ovulation, the volume of mucus secreted by the cervix significantly increases, and the mucus is thin and wet. After ovulation, the volume of mucus decreases, and it is thick and harder to notice. To avoid pregnancy, you should abstain from sexual intercourse or utilize a barrier method of birth control since the day you first observe any cervical mucus. To encourage pregnancy, you should have intercourse daily or every other day when you experience the thin and slippery cervical mucus.

When working with methods that depend on cervical mucus, note any alteration in your health or normal routine that might make it challenging to read the signs of ovulation. Medication, use of feminine hygiene products, douching, sexual activity, breastfeeding, or undergoing a pelvic exam in which there is lubrication will alter the appearance of the cervical mucus.

Basal Body Temperature (BBT) refers to your body’s temperature at complete rest. In most women, BBT rises slightly—by about 0.5 to 1°F—around the time of ovulation and stays elevated until the menstrual cycle ends. The most fertile period is usually the 2 to 3 days before this temperature rise. To track BBT, measure your temperature each morning immediately after waking up, before getting out of bed or consuming food or drinks, and note the readings daily.

However, BBT alone is not a reliable method for either avoiding or achieving pregnancy, as it only confirms that ovulation has already taken place rather than predicting when it will happen. Additionally, illnesses such as the flu or chronic conditions that cause a fever can interfere with accurate BBT readings.

Hormone-free: No pills, injections, or hormonal side effects.

Empowers women: Increases body awareness and confidence.

Affordable: Minimal or no cost compared to other methods.

Natural: No medical procedures or devices required.

Reversible: You can use it to avoid or plan pregnancy at any time.

Supports communication: Encourages shared decision-making between partners.

Fertility Awareness-Based Methods are a natural and educated way to plan your family. Monitoring basic biological cues such as your period, cervical mucus, and body temperature allows you to gain insight into your fertility and take control of your reproductive life. If you are thinking of employing a FAB system, it's useful to talk to a qualified health practitioner or fertility specialist who can guide you through correct usage and charting.