Types of Natural Family Planning: Fertility Awareness Methods: 1: This method requires a couple to abstain from coitus (sexual relations) on the days of a menstrual cycle when the woman is most likely to conceive (3 or 4 days before until 3 or 4 days after ovulation). Advantage(s): no cost -Disadvantage(s): -Ineffective in the prevention of STDs -Women must monitor the length of their menstrual cycle in order to use them effectively; -Suitable only for women who have regular menstrual cycles; -Constant menstrual cycle length monitoring required -Additional contraceptive methods or abstinence are required for a significant portion of the menstrual cycle