Contraception

Methods of Contraception: Contraceptive Methods for Women: “Rhythm”

Billings Method
In recent years, another version of the rhythm method has gained some wider currency. Known as the "mucus method" or "Billings method" (after its original proponents, John and Evelyn Billings, two Australian gynecologists), it is based on the observation that the normally cloudy cervical mucus blocking the sperm becomes clear, slippery, wet and more profuse during ovulation. In this condition the mucus can more easily be penetrated by sperm cells, and, taking a sample between two fingers, it can be stretched into a long thread. Doctors call this phenomenon "Spinnbarkeit" (German for “spinnability”). This test plus careful record keeping and self-observation can therefore tell a woman when ovulation has occurred. The accumulated information can, over time, be used to predict the fertile, "unsafe" days on which coitus is to be avoided. This method cannot really be helpful without extensive instruction and professional supervision. Even so, it remains of limited value and is therefore often combined with the "basal temperature method." All three versions of the rhythm method have their drawbacks, however, no matter how they are used in combination.
Effectiveness: not very effective

Changes in the cervical mucus: 1. Shortly after menstruation: no mucus. 2. Shortly before ovulation: liquifying mucus. 3. Ovulation: mucus can be stretched into a thin thread between two fingers (“Spinnbarkeit”).
Credit: Etschenberg, K. and A. Pommerenke: Empfängnisregelung: Materialangebote für Schulen, Seelze, 2000