CycleBeads

CycleBeads

CycleBeads is a visual tool used to help women track their menstrual cycles and manage fertility. It is based on the Standard Days Method (SDM), a natural family planning method that identifies a fixed fertile window in a woman's menstrual cycle. This method is suitable for women with cycles that are consistently between 26 and 32 days long.

Overview

CycleBeads is a string of 32 color-coded beads, each representing a day of the menstrual cycle. The beads are arranged in a circle with a movable rubber ring that is used to mark the current day of the cycle. The colors of the beads indicate fertile and non-fertile days:

• Red Bead: The first bead is red and represents the first day of the menstrual period.
• Brown Beads: These beads represent non-fertile days.
• White Beads: These beads indicate the fertile window, typically days 8 through 19 of the cycle.

The user moves the rubber ring one bead each day, starting with the red bead on the first day of her period. By tracking the position of the ring, a woman can determine whether she is on a fertile or non-fertile day.

History

CycleBeads was developed by the Institute for Reproductive Health at Georgetown University. The method was introduced in the early 2000s as a simple, low-cost, and effective way to help women manage their reproductive health without the use of hormones or devices.

Effectiveness

The Standard Days Method, when used correctly, has been shown to be over 95% effective in preventing pregnancy. However, its effectiveness can be lower in typical use due to user error or irregular cycles. It is important for users to track their cycles accurately and to abstain from unprotected intercourse during the fertile window if they wish to avoid pregnancy.

Advantages

• Non-hormonal: CycleBeads do not involve the use of hormones, making them a suitable option for women who prefer natural methods of family planning.
• Easy to Use: The visual and tactile nature of CycleBeads makes them easy to use and understand.
• Cost-effective: Once purchased, CycleBeads can be used repeatedly, making them a cost-effective option for long-term use.

Limitations

• Cycle Regularity: CycleBeads are only effective for women with regular menstrual cycles between 26 and 32 days.
• Discipline Required: Users must be diligent in moving the ring daily and abstaining from unprotected intercourse during the fertile window.
• No STI Protection: CycleBeads do not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Also see

• Natural Family Planning
• Fertility Awareness
• Menstrual Cycle
• Contraception