FERTILITY AWARENESS-BASED (FAB) METHODS
Fertility awareness-based (FAB) methods do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. If there is a risk of STI/HIV, the correct and consistent use of condoms is recommended. When used correctly and consistently, condoms offer one of the most effective methods of protection against STIs, including HIV. Female condoms are effective and safe, but are not used as widely by national programmes as male condoms.
CONDITIONCATEGORYa
A = accept, C = caution, D = delay		CLARIFICATIONS/EVIDENCE
SYMCAL
* additional comments after this tableSYM = symptoms-based method
CAL = calendar-based method
Women with conditions that make pregnancy an unacceptable risk should be advised that FAB methods for pregnancy prevention may not be appropriate for them because of their relatively higher typical-use failure rates.
PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS AND REPRODUCTIVE HISTORY
PREGNANCYNANANA = not applicable

Clarification: FAB methods are not relevant during pregnancy.
LIFE STAGEClarification: Menstrual irregularities are common in post-menarche and perimenopause and may complicate the use of FAB methods.
a) Post-menarcheCC
b) PerimenopauseCC
BREASTFEEDING*
a) < 6 weeks postpartumDD
b) ≥ 6 weeksCD
c) After menses beginsCC
POSTPARTUM*
(in non-breastfeeding women)
a) < 4 weeksDD
b) ≥ 4 weeksAD
POST-ABORTION*CD
REPRODUCTIVE TRACT INFECTIONS AND DISORDERS
IRREGULAR VAGINAL BLEEDING*DD
VAGINAL DISCHARGE*DA
OTHER
USE OF DRUGS THAT AFFECT CYCLE REGULARITY, HORMONES AND/OR FERTILITY SIGNS*C/DC/D
DISEASES THAT ELEVATE BODY TEMPERATURE*
a) Chronic diseasesCA
b) Acute diseasesDA
a

Further explanation of A, C and D categories:

  • A = accept: There is no medical reason to deny the particular FAB method to a woman in this circumstance.
  • C = caution: The method is normally provided in a routine setting, but with extra preparation and precautions. For FAB methods, this usually means that special counselling may be needed to ensure correct use of the method by a woman in this circumstance.
  • D = delay: Use of this method should be delayed until the condition is evaluated or corrected. Alternative temporary methods of contraception should be offered.

From: II, Using the recommendations

Cover of Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use
Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use. 5th edition.
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