Family Planning in Norcross, GA

At Gynecology and Cosmetic Surgery Center of Atlanta, we focus on taking a natural approach when it comes to helping patients plan their families. Natural family planning does not involve hormonal birth control or intrauterine devices. Rather, it's a way of tracking your menstrual cycles to determine which days you are most fertile, whether you are looking to conceive or prevent pregnancy. Natural family planning has numerous benefits, from its cost-effectiveness to the ability to avoid the side effects of pills and devices. To find out more about gaining control over your fertility through natural methods, schedule an appointment with Dr. Gerry Sotomayor at our office near Norcross, GA.

Natural family planning with menstrual cycle tracking offers couples a hormone-free method of contraception that respects the body's natural rhythms. By monitoring menstrual cycles and fertility signs, couples can effectively identify fertile and infertile days, enabling them to achieve or avoid pregnancy according to their preferences. Some of the primary potential benefits of natural family planning include:

• Enhances understanding of reproductive health
• Encourages communication between partners
• Can be used to achieve or avoid pregnancy
• Offers a natural and holistic approach to contraception
• No side effects associated with hormonal methods
• Helps women become more in tune with their bodies
• Can be used at any stage of a woman's reproductive life
• Promotes a deeper connection with one's menstrual cycle

How accurate is natural family planning compared to other methods?
Natural family planning can be up to 99% effective when followed correctly, according to Dr. Gerry Sotomayor at the Gynecology and Cosmetic Surgery Center of Atlanta. However, its effectiveness can vary depending on how diligently you track your menstrual cycles and adhere to the guidelines. It's essential to consult with Dr. Sotomayor for personalized guidance and training to make this method as accurate as possible.

What should I do if I have irregular menstrual cycles?
If you have irregular menstrual cycles, natural family planning may be more challenging — but not impossible. During your consultation at our office, Dr. Sotomayor can discuss additional tracking methods that may work better for you, such as tracking basal body temperature or monitoring cervical mucus consistency. Additional tracking can help increase the accuracy of natural family planning for those with irregular cycles.

Can natural family planning be used postpartum or during breastfeeding?
Yes, natural family planning can be used postpartum and during breastfeeding. However, there may be specific guidelines and considerations to take into account. Dr. Sotomayor and his experienced team can guide you through the nuances of using natural family planning during these unique life stages. They will help tailor the method to your specific needs and circumstances.

During your office visit, Dr. Sotomayor will learn about your needs and discuss how natural family planning works. Often, this can be done during your well-woman exam. Natural family planning works by understanding your body's natural cycles and keeping track of which days you ovulate (your fertile window). If you have intercourse on the day of ovulation or the two days following, it's possible for sperm to fertilize the egg. If you wish to prevent pregnancy, you should avoid having sex on these days. You can do this by tracking the calendar, checking the consistency of your mucus, or by taking your body temperature. When the natural family planning method is followed correctly, it can be very effective (up to 99%). However, you must be willing to avoid sexual intercourse for a few days out of the month in order to prevent pregnancy.

Whether you're looking to get pregnant or you're seeking birth control options, the caring team at Gynecology and Cosmetic Surgery Center of Atlanta is here to offer support and education. Dr. Gerry Sotomayor and his experienced team provide holistic care that fits the needs of Norcross, GA patients and their families. Book an appointment at our facility to find out more about natural family planning.