What Is It?

The cervical mucus method, also called the ovulation method and the
Billings ovulation method, is a type of natural family planning also known
as fertility awareness-based methods. The cervical mucus method is
based on careful observation of mucus patterns during the course of
your menstrual cycle.

How Does It Work?

To use the ovulation-mucus method, a woman needs to learn about her
body's natural fertility signs. Every month, there are several days
when the cervix secretes a special type of slippery mucus that helps
the sperm travel more easily in the uterus. This slippery stretchy
"fertile" mucus typically appears within a few days of ovulation. By
keeping track of the type of vaginal secretions that are present and
the feelings of moistness in the vagina, it is not hard to tell when
pregnancy can occur. A woman keeps a chart where she records these
body signs. Couples then avoid having intercourse on days when the
fertile mucus is observed. To use this method, couples should receive
training from a certified natural family planning instructor.

ADVANTAGES
Because this is really an accompaniment to the calendar method,
the same advantages apply:
it does not require any doctor appointments (although the
hospital class is highly recommended)
it comes without side effects. It also can work as an indicator
that the calendar method is working.
As with the basal body temperature method, this is a reliable
method of telling when a woman has ovulated, which is useful
information if you are trying to become pregnant.

DISADVANTAGES
it is not a particularly reliable method of birth control, especially
for women with irregular cycles.
Outside factors can also affect cervical mucus. For example, the
consistency of a womans cervical mucus can change if she has a
vaginal infection, of which she might not be aware.
Remember that cervical mucus does not let you know when you will
soon be ovulating, but sperm can live up to seven days inside the
vagina. Any sperm deposited ahead of time can still impregnate
the woman. This means that you must also follow the calendar
method, which precludes sex during much of the month.