In many countries, particularly in low-resource settings, use of modern family planning methods is low. Couples who use periodic abstinence or no family planning method, have inadequate access to commodity-based methods, use barrier methods inconsistently, or use withdrawal could benefit from a simple approach to help them determine when they are fertile and should avoid unprotected intercourse if they do not want to become pregnant.
A new approach to identifying the fertile window of the menstrual cycle has been developed. The TwoDay Algorithm is based on monitoring cervical secretions, according to a simple standard algorithm: if a woman has secretions either “today” or “yesterday”, she is fertile and should not have unprotected intercourse to avoid pregnancy. If she has no secretions on both days, she is not fertile and may not become pregnant even if she has unprotected intercourse. The TwoDay Algorithm appears to be simple to teach, learn, and use. A large data set from a World Health Organization study of the Ovulation Method was used to determine the potential effectiveness of the TwoDay Algorithm in identifying the fertile window. Results suggest that it can be an effective tool to avoid unplanned pregnancy. Qualitative studies of the potential acceptability of the Algorithm were conducted in Guatemala, Peru, and the Philippines, with positive results. Pilot studies are underway in these countries and contributed to the final design of a multi-country effectiveness study. Results of the theoretical efficacy test and the qualitative acceptability study will be presented.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this presentation, participants will be able to: 1. Describe the TwoDay Method of family planning. 2. Recognize the theoretical basis for the method and its potential effectiveness. 3. Assess the characteristics and acceptability of the method
Keywords: Family Planning, Contraceptives
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.