Effectiveness: 75-96%

A way to track ovulation. Sometimes people call FAMs the “rhythm or method” or “natural family planning.” FAMs are not recommended for teens, because they may not yet have regular menstrual cycles. They work by avoiding sexual intercourse (or use another type of birth control such as condoms) on the days when ovulation occurs and they are most likely to get pregnant.

• Lack of self-control
• Small risk of pregnancy from the clear fluid that comes out of the penis before ejaculation (pre-cum)
• Small risk of pregnancy if semen gets on the outside of the vulva
   

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