The Sympto-thermal Method of Fertility Awareness: An Overview
I know, I know, “sympto-thermal method of fertility awareness” is quite the mouthful. The long name alone might be enough to make you want to turn around and run, but read on! In this post, I’ll provide a brief overview of what the sympto-thermal method is, some of its benefits, and what sorts of folks can benefit from learning it (HINT: probably you!).
Sympto-what?
When I think about what the sympto-thermal method of fertility awareness is, I’m reminded of the classic quote: “It’s a bird! It’s a plane! No, it’s Superman!” Not because the sympto-thermal is often mistaken for flying objects and superheros, but because it can be used for so many amazing things. Before I get into listing out all those things, here’s an overview:
The sympto-thermal method, broadly defined, is education about how the female reproductive system works. This includes how hormones work together to create the menstrual cycle, what exactly happens during the menstrual cycle (and it’s not just ovulation and your period!), and why periods exist (despite many of us wishing they didn’t).
More specifically, the sympto-thermal method is the application of this information in order to achieve health and family planning goals.
Benefits of the sympto-thermal method:
I mentioned that the sympto-thermal method is a lot of things…so, what are those things?
If you struggle with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), heavy periods, menstrual cramps, or any other unpleasant period problems, practicing the sympto-thermal method means visualizing the health of your hormones, making it easier to take steps to improve it. It also means shedding light on hormone imbalance and reproductive disorders.
If you’re seeking a highly effective alternative to hormonal contraception — or if you’re tired of the pill and want to know what else is out there — practicing the sympto-thermal method means effectively preventing pregnancy without artificial hormones or devices.
If you’re trying to conceive, thinking about trying, or struggling to conceive, practicing the sympto-thermal method means identifying your body’s most fertile days, helping you maximize your chances of getting pregnant.
If you’re interested in ridiculously accurate period predictions (I know I am!), practicing the sympto-thermal method can help you predict your next period…in many cases right down to the day! Talk about period preparedness.
Who can use the sympto-thermal method?
More than likely, you can find benefits of practicing and/or learning about the sympto-thermal method regardless of your family planning goals, relationship status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. All you really need is functioning ovaries. Even having a hysterectomy doesn’t rule you out since your ovaries will still be producing hormones!
Whether you’re looking to accurately predict your upcoming periods, having trouble getting pregnant, thinking about getting pregnant, seeking alternative birth control options, considering stopping hormonal contraception, looking to improve your hormone health, or just trying to gain an understanding of all your body’s organized madness, learning the sympto-thermal method might just help.
The human body is freaking amazing, y’all. The effects of understanding the female reproductive system can propagate into many areas of your life.
Learn more about the sympto-thermal method on our website or check out this highly-rated book about fertility awareness for more information.
You can also download the Groove app to help you track your cycles and practice the sympto-thermal method.
