Medical doctor at 21^st Clinic, Dr. Eric Marfo has advised women to fully comprehend how their body works before opting for a natural or medical family planning method. In an interaction on Sompa FM’s Healing Point which airs every Saturday, the medical doctor who doubles as a researcher at the Sciatica Treatment and Research Center called on women to ascertain their body’s responses before taking that leap in order to avoid complications and mishap.

He educated that Family planning refers to use of modern contraceptives or natural techniques to limit or space pregnancies and childbirth. Modern methods of contraception include the pill, female and male sterilization, IUD, injectables, implants, male and female condom, diaphragm, and emergency contraception. Traditional methods include periodic abstinence, withdrawal and folk methods.

Hinting on the various natural family planning method, the health expert advised women to opt for the Calendar method, Cervical mucus check; where women chart their cervical mucus to tell them where they are fertile or most likely to conceive, and the Basal Body temperature analysis.

 “There are numerous options available to individuals and couples who desire family planning. Natural family planning is unique and it can be utilized both as a conceptive and contraceptive option. Before the advent of family planning drugs, fertility awareness was utilized to either prevent or achieve pregnancy. But be mindful of how long your male partner’s fluid can last in your body since it must get tricky”- he advised.

 According to Dr. Marfo, natural family planning methods are a set of techniques used to determine a woman's fertile and infertile periods in order to prevent or achieve pregnancy without the use of artificial contraceptives. Some of the benefits of natural family planning methods include:

1. No side effects: Unlike artificial contraceptives, natural family planning methods do not have any side effects on the body.
2. Cost-effective: Natural family planning methods are cost-effective as they do not require any expensive medical procedures or devices.
3. Promotes communication and intimacy: Natural family planning methods require communication and cooperation between partners, which can lead to improved intimacy and communication in the relationship.
4. Can be used to achieve pregnancy: Natural family planning methods can also be used to help couples conceive by identifying the woman's fertile period.
5. Environmentally friendly: Natural family planning methods do not produce any waste or require the use of chemicals, making them environmentally friendly.

Dr. Eric Marfo clarified that overall, natural family planning methods can be a safe, effective, and empowering option for couples looking to prevent or achieve pregnancy. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine which method is best for you and your partner.

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