Natural Cycles is a popular, hormone-free birth control method, but How Much Is Natural Cycles and is it right for you? At HOW.EDU.VN, we provide expert insights to help you make informed decisions about your health. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the costs, effectiveness, and considerations surrounding Natural Cycles, offering clear and actionable information for those seeking natural family planning options. Dive in to discover if Natural Cycles is a suitable choice for your reproductive health needs and how to use it effectively.
1. What is Natural Cycles and How Does it Work?
Natural Cycles is a fertility awareness-based method (FABM) and app that uses your basal body temperature (BBT) to determine your daily fertility status. The app analyzes your BBT, along with menstrual cycle data, to identify your fertile window – the days each month when you are most likely to get pregnant. By abstaining from unprotected sex on fertile days, Natural Cycles can be used as a hormone-free birth control option.
The app’s algorithm learns your unique cycle patterns and provides daily fertility predictions, indicated as either “green days” (when unprotected sex is considered safe) or “red days” (when protection is needed to prevent pregnancy). Natural Cycles is FDA-cleared as a contraceptive method and marketed towards women seeking natural birth control.
2. How Much Does Natural Cycles Cost? A Detailed Breakdown
Understanding the cost of Natural Cycles involves several factors, including subscription fees and additional expenses. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what you can expect to pay:
2.1. Subscription Options and Pricing
Natural Cycles offers two main subscription options: annual and monthly.
- Annual Subscription: This is the most cost-effective option, typically priced around $79.99 per year. The annual subscription includes a free basal body thermometer to accurately track your temperature.
- Monthly Subscription: This option provides flexibility, allowing you to pay on a month-to-month basis. The monthly subscription is generally priced around $12.99 per month, but it doesn’t include a thermometer.
Here’s a comparison table for a quick overview:
| Subscription Type | Price | Thermometer Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $79.99 per year | Yes | Long-term users, cost-conscious individuals |
| Monthly | $12.99 per month | No | Users who want flexibility, short-term commitment |
2.2. Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the subscription fee, there may be additional costs associated with using Natural Cycles:
- Basal Body Thermometer: If you opt for the monthly subscription or need a replacement, you’ll need to purchase a basal body thermometer. Quality BBT thermometers can range from $10 to $30.
- Backup Contraception: During “red days,” you’ll need to use backup contraception methods like condoms. The cost of condoms can vary, but it’s an expense to factor into your budget.
- Data Usage: Using the app requires data, so consider your mobile data plan. However, data usage is generally minimal.
2.3. Discounts and Promotions
Keep an eye out for discounts and promotions that can help lower the cost of Natural Cycles. The company occasionally offers discounted rates or bundled packages, so it’s worth checking their website or signing up for their newsletter.
3. Natural Cycles Effectiveness: What the Studies Say
The effectiveness of Natural Cycles as a contraceptive method is a crucial consideration. The app has been studied in clinical trials, and the results provide insights into its efficacy:
3.1. Perfect Use vs. Typical Use
It’s important to understand the difference between perfect use and typical use when evaluating the effectiveness of any birth control method:
- Perfect Use: This refers to the effectiveness when the method is used consistently and correctly according to the instructions.
- Typical Use: This reflects real-world scenarios, where users may not always follow the instructions perfectly or consistently.
3.2. Clinical Trial Results
According to the FDA clearance, Natural Cycles is 93% effective with typical use and 98% effective with perfect use. This means that out of 100 women using Natural Cycles for one year, 7 may become pregnant with typical use, while only 2 may become pregnant with perfect use.
3.3. Comparison to Other Birth Control Methods
To put these numbers in perspective, let’s compare Natural Cycles to other common birth control methods:
| Method | Perfect Use Effectiveness | Typical Use Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Cycles | 98% | 93% |
| Birth Control Pill | 99% | 91% |
| IUD (Hormonal) | >99% | >99% |
| IUD (Copper) | >99% | >99% |
| Condoms | 98% | 87% |
| Rhythm Method | 95% | 76% |
As you can see, Natural Cycles’ effectiveness is comparable to the birth control pill but lower than IUDs. It’s more effective than the traditional rhythm method but requires consistent and accurate use.
4. Factors Influencing Natural Cycles’ Effectiveness
Several factors can impact the effectiveness of Natural Cycles:
4.1. User Diligence and Consistency
Consistent and accurate data logging is critical. You must take your basal body temperature at the same time every morning before getting out of bed and accurately record it in the app.
4.2. Irregular Cycles
Women with irregular cycles may find Natural Cycles less reliable, as it can be more challenging for the algorithm to predict their fertile window.
4.3. External Factors
Factors like illness, stress, sleep changes, and alcohol consumption can affect your BBT and potentially impact the accuracy of the app’s predictions. As Dr. Nicole Swiner notes, “Sleep, stress, or recently coming off of [hormonal birth control] can create irregular periods.”
4.4. Understanding the App’s Interface
Familiarize yourself with the app’s interface and understand how to interpret the daily fertility status indicators (“green” and “red” days).
5. Benefits of Using Natural Cycles
Despite its effectiveness considerations, Natural Cycles offers several benefits:
5.1. Hormone-Free Birth Control
For women seeking a hormone-free birth control option, Natural Cycles provides an alternative to hormonal pills, IUDs, and implants.
5.2. Increased Body Awareness
Using Natural Cycles can help you gain a deeper understanding of your menstrual cycle and fertility patterns.
5.3. Natural Family Planning
Natural Cycles can be used for both contraception and family planning. If you decide you want to conceive, the app can help you identify your most fertile days.
5.4. No Side Effects
Unlike hormonal birth control methods, Natural Cycles doesn’t have hormonal side effects like mood changes, weight gain, or decreased libido.
6. Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
Before deciding to use Natural Cycles, consider these potential drawbacks:
6.1. Requires Diligence and Consistency
As mentioned earlier, Natural Cycles requires consistent and accurate data logging, which may not be suitable for everyone.
6.2. Not as Effective as Other Methods
Compared to IUDs and implants, Natural Cycles has a lower effectiveness rate, especially with typical use.
6.3. Doesn’t Protect Against STIs
Natural Cycles doesn’t provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You’ll need to use condoms to protect yourself and your partner.
6.4. May Not Be Suitable for Irregular Cycles
Women with irregular cycles may find it challenging to use Natural Cycles effectively.
7. Who is Natural Cycles Best Suited For?
Natural Cycles may be a good option for you if:
- You’re seeking a hormone-free birth control method.
- You’re highly motivated and diligent about tracking your data.
- You have regular menstrual cycles.
- You’re comfortable with a slightly higher risk of pregnancy compared to other methods.
- You’re in a committed relationship and both partners are on board with the method.
8. How to Use Natural Cycles Effectively: A Step-by-Step Guide
To maximize the effectiveness of Natural Cycles, follow these steps:
8.1. Purchase a Subscription and Basal Body Thermometer
Choose the subscription option that suits your needs and purchase a reliable basal body thermometer. Natural Cycles typically provides a thermometer with an annual subscription.
8.2. Download the App and Create an Account
Download the Natural Cycles app from the App Store or Google Play and create an account.
8.3. Take Your Temperature Daily
Take your basal body temperature every morning before getting out of bed, at the same time each day. Consistency is key.
8.4. Log Your Temperature in the App
Accurately log your temperature in the app each day. The app will analyze your data and provide your daily fertility status.
8.5. Use Protection on “Red Days”
On “red days,” use backup contraception like condoms to prevent pregnancy.
8.6. Monitor Your Cycle and Adjust Accordingly
Monitor your cycle and note any changes or irregularities. Adjust your usage of Natural Cycles as needed.
9. Consulting with a Healthcare Professional
Before starting Natural Cycles, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help you determine if Natural Cycles is the right choice for you and provide guidance on how to use it effectively.
9.1. Discuss Your Medical History
Share your medical history and any relevant health conditions with your doctor.
9.2. Get Advice on Using Natural Cycles
Ask your doctor for advice on using Natural Cycles, including tips for accurate data logging and managing irregular cycles.
9.3. Learn About Backup Contraception
Discuss backup contraception options with your doctor and learn how to use them properly.
10. Natural Cycles and Religious Beliefs
Natural Cycles can be a suitable option for individuals with certain religious beliefs that preclude the use of hormonal birth control or other methods. It aligns with natural family planning principles and allows for a hormone-free approach to contraception.
11. Natural Cycles and Postpartum Use
Using Natural Cycles postpartum requires careful consideration. Your cycle may be irregular after giving birth, which can affect the accuracy of the app’s predictions. Consult with your doctor before using Natural Cycles postpartum.
12. Natural Cycles and Perimenopause
Perimenopause can also cause cycle irregularities, making it more challenging to use Natural Cycles effectively. Discuss the suitability of Natural Cycles with your doctor if you’re in perimenopause.
13. Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions
There are several common concerns and misconceptions surrounding Natural Cycles. Let’s address some of them:
13.1. “Natural Cycles is the Same as the Rhythm Method.”
Natural Cycles is more advanced than the traditional rhythm method, as it uses an algorithm to analyze your BBT and provide personalized fertility predictions.
13.2. “Natural Cycles is 100% Effective.”
No birth control method is 100% effective. Natural Cycles has an effectiveness rate of 93% with typical use and 98% with perfect use.
13.3. “Natural Cycles is Only for Contraception.”
Natural Cycles can also be used for family planning. If you want to conceive, the app can help you identify your most fertile days.
14. Alternatives to Natural Cycles
If Natural Cycles isn’t the right fit for you, consider these alternative birth control methods:
14.1. Hormonal Birth Control
Hormonal birth control methods like pills, patches, and rings are highly effective and convenient.
14.2. IUDs and Implants
IUDs and implants are long-acting, reversible contraceptives (LARCs) that are more than 99% effective.
14.3. Barrier Methods
Barrier methods like condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps can protect against pregnancy and STIs.
14.4. Fertility Awareness-Based Methods (FABMs)
Other FABMs include the symptothermal method, the Billings ovulation method, and the Marquette method.
15. The Future of Natural Cycles and Fertility Tracking
The field of fertility tracking is constantly evolving. Expect to see advancements in technology, such as wearable sensors and improved algorithms, that enhance the accuracy and convenience of fertility tracking apps like Natural Cycles.
16. Real-Life Experiences with Natural Cycles
Many women have shared their experiences with Natural Cycles. Some have found it to be a reliable and empowering birth control option, while others have experienced unintended pregnancies. It’s essential to consider a range of perspectives when evaluating Natural Cycles.
Kristi L., a 32-year-old, shared, “Birth control pills were making me feel like total garbage — both emotionally and physically. I wanted a metal IUD to avoid hormones.” She found Natural Cycles out of necessity and with the guidance of her doctor.
17. Tips for Success with Natural Cycles
Here are some additional tips for success with Natural Cycles:
- Be Patient: It may take a few cycles for the algorithm to learn your patterns and provide accurate predictions.
- Join the Natural Cycles Community: Connect with other users online or in person to share experiences and get support.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest research and information about Natural Cycles.
18. Conclusion: Is Natural Cycles Right for You?
Natural Cycles is a hormone-free birth control option that requires diligence, consistency, and a thorough understanding of your menstrual cycle. While it offers benefits like increased body awareness and no hormonal side effects, it’s not as effective as other methods and may not be suitable for everyone.
We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision about Natural Cycles. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if Natural Cycles is the right choice for you.
19. Need Expert Advice? Contact HOW.EDU.VN Today!
Navigating the complexities of reproductive health can be challenging. At HOW.EDU.VN, we connect you with leading PhDs and experts who can provide personalized guidance and support.
Are you struggling to find reliable information about natural birth control methods? Do you need expert advice on managing your fertility?
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20. FAQs About Natural Cycles
Here are some frequently asked questions about Natural Cycles:
20.1. How accurate is Natural Cycles?
Natural Cycles is 93% effective with typical use and 98% effective with perfect use.
20.2. Can I use Natural Cycles if I have irregular cycles?
Women with irregular cycles may find Natural Cycles less reliable. Consult with your doctor to determine if it’s a suitable option for you.
20.3. Does Natural Cycles protect against STIs?
No, Natural Cycles doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You’ll need to use condoms to protect yourself and your partner.
20.4. How do I take my basal body temperature?
Take your basal body temperature every morning before getting out of bed, at the same time each day. Use a basal body thermometer and follow the instructions in the Natural Cycles app.
20.5. What should I do on “red days”?
On “red days,” use backup contraception like condoms to prevent pregnancy.
20.6. Can I use Natural Cycles after giving birth?
Using Natural Cycles postpartum requires careful consideration. Your cycle may be irregular after giving birth, which can affect the accuracy of the app’s predictions. Consult with your doctor before using Natural Cycles postpartum.
20.7. How does Natural Cycles compare to other birth control methods?
Natural Cycles is hormone-free and offers increased body awareness. However, it’s not as effective as IUDs and implants and requires consistent and accurate data logging.
20.8. What is the difference between perfect use and typical use?
Perfect use refers to the effectiveness when the method is used consistently and correctly according to the instructions. Typical use reflects real-world scenarios, where users may not always follow the instructions perfectly or consistently.
20.9. Is Natural Cycles FDA-approved?
Natural Cycles is FDA-cleared as a contraceptive method.
20.10. Can I use Natural Cycles if I’m breastfeeding?
Consult with your doctor before using Natural Cycles while breastfeeding, as breastfeeding can affect your cycle and BBT.
