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Natural Family Planning Methods MeSH Descriptor Data 2025


MeSH Heading
Natural Family Planning Methods
Tree Number(s)
E02.875.194.605
Unique ID
D012252
RDF Unique Identifier
http://id.nlm.nih.gov/mesh/D012252
Scope Note
A class of natural contraceptive methods in which SEXUAL ABSTINENCE is practiced a few days before and after the estimated day of ovulation, during the fertile phase. Methods for determining the fertile period or OVULATION DETECTION are based on various physiological indicators, such as circulating hormones, changes in cervical mucus (CERVIX MUCUS), and the basal body temperature.
Entry Term(s)
Natural Family Planning
Periodic Abstinence
Rhythm Method of Family Planning
Rhythm Method of Family Planning, Calendar
Rhythm Method of Family Planning, Cervical Mucus
Rhythm Method of Family Planning, Temperature
Symptothermal Method of Family Planning
NLM Classification #
WP 630
Previous Indexing
Contraception (1966-1974)
See Also
Fertile Period
Public MeSH Note
2004; see RHYTHM METHOD 1975-2003; for NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING see FAMILY PLANNING 1988-2003
History Note
2004 (1975); for NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING use FAMILY PLANNING 1988-2003
Date Established
1975/09/01
Date of Entry
1974/11/19
Revision Date
2005/06/30
Natural Family Planning Methods Preferred
Rhythm Method of Family Planning, Calendar Narrower
Rhythm Method of Family Planning, Temperature Narrower
Rhythm Method of Family Planning, Cervical Mucus Narrower
Rhythm Method of Family Planning Narrower
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