Sympto-thermal method

Are you tired of being caught off guard by your menstrual cycle every month? Do you want to take control of your reproductive health and better understand your body?

Look no further than the sympto-thermal method, a natural and effective way to track your cycle. And now, with the help of Shekan, it's easier than ever to practice this method.

What's great about this method, is that you really get to understand your body's behaviour in a new way, since you are paying more attention to it's signals than usual.

How the sympto-thermal method works

The sympto-thermal method involves tracking two vital signs - basal body temperature and cervical mucus - to determine the phases of your menstrual cycle. Using these signs, you can predict when you will ovulate and when your period will begin.

Basal body temperature is your body's temperature at rest. During ovulation, a woman's basal body temperature increases by about 0.4 degrees Celsius (on average). By taking your temperature every morning before getting out of bed and recording it in your Shekan app, you can track the temperature fluctuations that indicate ovulation.

Cervical mucus is a substance produced by the cervix that changes in consistency and texture throughout the menstrual cycle. Leading up to ovulation, cervical mucus becomes clear and slippery, resembling egg whites. By recording the texture and color of your cervical mucus each day, you can pinpoint when you are most fertile.

The sympto-thermal method in action with Shekan

Now, let's take a closer look at how the method works within the app:

Shekan will ask you to record your daily basal body temperature in the morning and cervical mucus observations in the evening (with all textures that you have noticed over the day).

With this information, we can create a visual representation of your cycle, including predictions for when you are most fertile and when your period is expected to occur.

Our algorithm not only takes your current cycle into account, but also your past cycle history and any other relevant health information. As you continue to input data, the algorithm becomes more accurate in predicting your cycle.

The joy of using Shekan for the sympto-thermal method

One of the main benefits of using Shekan to practice the sympto-thermal method is the convenience it provides. Instead of manually recording your observations in a journal, Shekan does all the work for you. It helps you track your cycle with precision, avoiding the possibility of human error.

Plus, you can easily share your data with your medical professional to get a better understanding of your reproductive health. Simply use the “Report for doctors” menu in your settings, which will include measurements for your ovulation dates if you are using the sympto-thermal method actively.

This requires some effort

It's important to note that while the sympto-thermal method is effective at preventing pregnancy when used correctly, it does require commitment and effort. You must be thorough in taking your temperature and observing your cervical mucus every day to get accurate results.

Additionally, the sympto-thermal method may not be the best option for everyone. Women with very irregular cycles or certain health conditions may find it difficult to use this method effectively. It's always best to consult with your medical professional before using this method as a form of birth control.

What happens if I miss out on recording my measurements?

If you don't measure the mandatory events according to the rules, we won't start guessing around and use the calendar method instead to predict the end of your current cycle. Note that the calendar method does not offer predictions for your ovulation dates and is less accurate in general.

When to avoid using the sympto-thermal method

During periods of significant hormonal fluctuations, such as puberty and the menopause, the regularity and predictability of menstrual cycles can be compromised.

Puberty is characterized by the onset and maturation of reproductive hormones, leading to irregular cycles as the body adjusts. Similarly, menopause marks the end of a woman's reproductive years, bringing about erratic cycle lengths, unpredictable ovulation, and variations in temperature patterns.

Using the sympto-thermal method during these phases can be unreliable due to these inconsistencies. As a result, it's advised not to rely on this method for fertility awareness or contraception during puberty and menopause.

Overall, the sympto-thermal method is a great option for those looking for a natural and effective way to track their menstrual cycle. And with the help of Shekan, it's easier than ever to practice this method and take control of your reproductive health.