Hormone-free contraception : More and more women* no longer want to rely on hormones for contraception . Their concerns about the side effects associated with many hormonal methods are too great. At the same time, interest is growing in approaches that take the menstrual cycle into account and don't require intervention. But how does the symptothermal method work – and what role do the app and thermometer play in its use ?

The symptothermal method combines two bodily signs : the daily measurement of basal body temperature. and the quality of the cervical mucus . Both indicate whether a woman* is in the fertile days of her cycle .

After ovulation , the temperature rises slightly, while the Cervical mucus changes in quality and quantity. In combination, these signals provide a reliable basis for assessing the fertile phase.

Unlike hormonal contraceptives , this method does not interfere with the body but uses natural observations . When used correctly, it can reveal when pregnancy is possible – and when it is not.

Previously, the symptothermal method involved handwritten charts. Today, this method of contraception looks different. Apps handle the evaluation. The Ovy app documents measurements, analyzes them, and automatically marks fertile and infertile days .

The interplay between the Ovy basal thermometer and the Ovy app reduces potential errors and makes the application suitable for everyday use. This transforms a traditional method into a modern, easy-to-use system – for women* seeking hormone-free alternatives .

Advantages:

• Hormone-free contraception avoids the use of hormones.
• Many women* react sensitively to taking the pill or other hormonal contraceptives and suffer from side effects such as headaches, mood swings or skin problems.
• A hormone- free method makes it possible to support the menstrual cycle naturally.
  

Disadvantages:

• The symptothermal method requires discipline and consistent application .
• Inaccuracies arise if measurements are omitted or data is not carefully recorded.
• Additional contraception is necessary during sexual intercourse on fertile days to prevent pregnancy ; the risk of this method increases if the rules are not followed.

Another advantage of hormone-free contraception lies in the absence of typical side effects . While hormonal preparations have a profound impact on the body , the symptothermal method remains free of such burdens. It offers women—whether young or after pregnancy —the opportunity to better understand their body's signals.

Likewise, no invasive procedure is required, unlike with a hormonal or copper IUD . This method is a welcome alternative, especially for women* who have previously experienced problems with hormonal contraceptives or who are hesitant to use an IUD.

Even though the Ovy app and the Ovy basal thermometer are a practical combination, consultation with a gynecologist remains important. Specialists can explain the method, assess individual risks , and answer any questions. Unlike with an IUD, sterilization, or other procedures, no medical intervention is required.

Hormone-free contraception offers a genuine alternative to classic, hormone-based methods. The symptothermal method combines observation and temperature measurement – ​​and is made particularly easy to use by digital solutions like the Ovy app .

The Ovy app and the Ovy basal thermometer make getting started easy: daily measurement, automatic evaluation and a clear overview of fertile and infertile days .

In short: Anyone who wants to avoid side effects and use a natural method will find a modern solution here.

• Frank-Herrmann, P. et al. (2007). The effectiveness of a fertility awareness based method to avoid pregnancy. Human Reproduction, 22(5), 1310-1319.
• Manhart, MD et al. (2013). Fertility awareness-based methods of family planning: A review of effectiveness. Osteopathic Family Physician, 5(1), 2–8.
• World Health Organization. (2016). Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use. Geneva: WHO.