Ovulation Sex - no Birth Control

Q. I am a 22 yr old male and I was just wondering, me and my girlfriend (22yrs old) of 3 years are in a monogamous relationship an we have unprotected sex and she isn't on birth control (it really, really lowers her sex drive, and neither of us like condoms). So we have done research on the rhythm method and withdrawal method. I never ejaculate inside her and we plan sex around her ovulation days. Just wondering how effective this might be? She hasn't gone the whole 3 years without Birth Control, just the past year and a half.

A. There are people who swear by non artificial forms of contraception. Unfortunately, there are many factors that can limit the effectiveness of these techniques and the effectiveness statistics are poor to say the least. Before you choose to write off the pill, did you rule out all other forms of oral contraception? Her body might respond better to one with a modified dosage of hormones or a Progestin-only variety.

Also, there may be other factors in her life that contribute to a decreased sex drive. Stress, poor diet, overworking, studying, lack of physical activity, pessimistic body image, and relationship issues can all have a bearing on her enjoyment of sex. Perhaps you need to modify your sexual activity in order to help her along. For example, her drive may be higher at different points throughout the day, such as first thing in the morning instead of right before bed.

Before you decide that techniques like Withdrawal Method or Rhythm Method are your best choice, review the contraceptive options listed in the Birth Control section of our website. If she isn’t the right candidate for the pill, an IUD, birth control shot, sponge, or progesterone implant may all be viable alternatives for her to consider; just make sure you review these methods with your doctor or family planning practitioner.