Question

I have been trying to utilize the billings and sympto- thermal methods of nfp but have been finding that for the past several months, my mucous never changes to post-fertility status--thus have been abstaining. However, are there any rules/etc. that can be followed so that I do not have to abstain from intercourse when someone such as myself is having irregular periods-(mucous never changes indicating ovulation). I am 45 years old.

If there is some type of instruction I could take during these close-to-menopause years/years of irregular cycles, please let me know where I could obtain the info/instruction.

Jill

Answer

Our bodies certainly change over time, and you are now charting your fertility in that perimenopausal phase, and so your observations and charting may not be what you are accustomed to, even if you have used NFP for a long time. It is why we recommend keeping in contact with your NFP teacher, scheduling appts to review your charting when you see your patterns change, and even if things have not changed much, to annually review your charting, and your observational routine.

An NFP teacher can certainly assist you in determining your fertile time, even in the presence of continuous mucus. NFP is effective in all phases of life: coming off the pill, breastfeeding, pre-menopausal, etc, but the patterns may be different during these times. So whether you are new to NFP, or a long time user, you will be a much more confident and effective user of NFP if you obtain the services of an NFP teacher to help you interpret what you are observing.

Since you are in California, you need only consult the online directory of NFP professionals on this website at www.canfp.org to find the nearest resource.

Hang in there!

Sheila St. John

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