Final answer:
Fertility awareness methods are the process where a woman tracks her fertile period to avoid pregnancy by abstaining or using other contraceptives during that time. These methods include tracking changes in basal body temperature and cervical mucus to identify ovulation, though they have higher failure rates due to the need for accurate and consistent tracking.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fertility Awareness Methods The method that involves identifying a woman's fertile period and either abstaining from vaginal intercourse or using another contraceptive method during this time is known as fertility awareness methods. These techniques require a woman to monitor signs of ovulation such as changes in basal body temperature or cervical secretes, to determine when she is most likely to conceive. Abstaining or using another form of contraception during this window can help prevent pregnancy. Fertility awareness methods are considered behavioral methods of contraception and have higher failure rates due to the diligence and accuracy required to track the fertility indicators. A woman's body temperature may rise slightly at ovulation, and her cervical mucus may increase in volume and become more pliable, which signals the fertile period. Using this method effectively requires daily motivation and commitment.