Background:The aim was to compare the efficacy and acceptability of two Internet-based fertility awareness based methods of family planning (FABM).Study Design: Six hundred and sixty-seven women and their male partners were randomized into either an electronic hormonal fertility monitor (EHFM) group or a cervical mucus monitoring (CMM) group. Both groups utilized a web site with instructions, charts, and support.Acceptability was assessed online at 1, 3, and 6 months. Pregnancy rates were determined by survival analysis.
Results:The EHFM participants (N=197) had a total pregnancy rate of 7 per 100 users over 12 months of use compared with 18.5 for the CMM group (N=160). The log rank survival test showed a significant difference (p < .01) in survival functions. Mean acceptability for both groups increased significantly over time (p < .0001). Continuation rates at 12 months for the monitor group were 40.6% and the mucus group 36.6%.
Conclusion:In comparison with the CMM, the EHFM method of family planning was more effective. All users had an increase in acceptability over time. Results are tempered by the high drop-out rate.