Billings Method: what it is, how it works and how to do it

The Billings method of ovulation is a natural technique that aims to identify a woman’s fertile period by observing the characteristics of the cervical mucus, which can be perceived as soon as it enters the vagina, thus making it possible to prevent or attempt pregnancy.

The presence of mucus indicates female hormonal changes and, depending on the characteristics, can inform the woman whether there is a chance that fertilization will occur more easily and whether or not the body is ready to receive a pregnancy. Learn more about cervical mucus and what it indicates.

Although the Billings method is effective and useful for informing the days on which to have sexual intercourse or not, according to the couple’s wishes, it is important that a condom is still used, because in addition to being contraceptive, it protects against various infections. that can be sexually transmitted.

How it works

The Billings method works with the aim of checking whether a woman is in her fertile period, which is useful in planning a pregnancy or avoiding pregnancy. This method works by observing the characteristics of cervical mucus, which varies during the menstrual cycle. Thus, as the woman enters the fertile period, it may be noted:

• Feeling of being wetter in the vulva region;
• Thinner and clear mucus, which may be more consistent or similar to egg white;
• Increased libido;
• Increased body temperature.

By observing the characteristics of cervical mucus and symptoms, it is possible for women to more easily identify their fertile period and, if there is sexual intercourse during this period, fertilization and consequent pregnancy are likely to occur. However, if this does not happen, there will be hormonal discharge and menstruation, starting another cycle. See how to know if you are in your fertile period.

How to do the Billings method

To do the Billings method, the woman must make observations about:

• The characteristics of cervical mucus inside and outside the menstrual period;
• Presence or absence of mucus;
• Consistency of cervical mucus;
• Days you had sexual intercourse.

It is important that women know how to recognize mucus consistencies during the menstrual cycle to avoid misinterpretations. Furthermore, if the Billings method is being followed, it is recommended to avoid the use of hormonal medications, applying spermicides, introducing objects or carrying out internal examinations in the vagina, as these can cause changes in the cervical mucus, making it difficult for the woman to interpret.

Main advantages

The advantages of using this method alone to get pregnant or not get pregnant are:

• It is a simple and easy method to apply;
• No need to use hormonal medications that have unpleasant side effects such as headache, swelling and varicose veins;
• Greater control over changes in your body by being attentive daily to what happens in your intimate region;
• Be sure to have sex on the right days to avoid the risk of getting pregnant.

Furthermore, knowing the basic fertility pattern allows you to know the days on which a woman can have sex without running the risk of getting pregnant, without needing to use any contraceptive method, just observing her body’s signals daily.

On the other hand, in the case of women over 35 years of age, the use of this method may not be advantageous, since changes in vaginal secretion may not be as evident. The Billings ovulation method indicates a probability of ovulation and is, therefore, not an exact measurement of ovulation, in addition to being influenced by the woman’s interpretation.

Is the Billings ovulation method safe?

The Billings ovulation method is safe, scientifically based and recommended by the World Health Organization, and, when performed correctly, protects against unwanted pregnancy by up to 99%.

However, teenagers and women who are not aware of their menstrual cycle daily should opt for another contraceptive method, such as a condom, IUD or contraceptive pill, for example to avoid unwanted pregnancy, as for the Billings method to be safe, it must be Pay attention to the mucus present in the vulva every day, noting its changes daily. See how to choose the best contraceptive method.

How to avoid pregnancy with the Billings method

Although many women use this method to get pregnant, it is also possible to use it to avoid pregnancy, and it is recommended for this:

• Have sexual intercourse every other day during the days when the woman feels that her vulva is dry, which usually happens in the final days of menstruation and in the first days after menstruation;
• Do not have sexual intercourse during menstruation as during this period it is not possible to check the consistency of the mucus and whether it corresponds to fertility. Although the probability of pregnancy occurring after sexual intercourse during menstruation is low, the risk exists and may compromise the effectiveness of the Billings method;
• Do not have sex when you feel very wet and up to 4 days after the wet feeling starts.

It is not recommended to have intimate contact without a condom when you feel that your vulva is naturally wet or slippery throughout the day because these signs indicate the fertile period and there is a high chance of pregnancy. Therefore, during this period, sexual abstinence or using a condom is recommended to avoid pregnancy.