I charted whilst I was TTC. I spoke to my OB about his thoughts on the matter and he said he wished more women did chart/learn about their natural cycle!
The benefits, from my perspective, were this:
~ I got to know my own cycle, which was a comfort, as I quickly realised I had a regular 29 day cycle.
~ I also realised that I was at least ovulating: I could see this from my charts: very reassurring.
~ I felt like I was the one "in control" and being "proactive", which was comforting, as after a long time of TTC with no BFP, I did sometimes feel like it was all a bit much.
~ When I did get referred (for a lap) I had all the details of my charting/cycle at my fingertips, so my OB could get a realistic picture of my cycle as well.
~ It's interesting!! I enjoy knowing what my body is up to!!
However, the downsides can be:
~ Can make you a bit obessive at times
~ Run the risk of only BD'ing at your "fertile time" which has got to be a downer for you both...
~ Run the risk of your relationship and babymaking attempts becoming a little bit "clinical"
~ You do tend to over-analyse every tiny sign, especially from around 10 DPO!!
Having said all that, I would, from my personal experiance, recommend charting.
And as the other girls have said, Fertility Friend is great: the info that you can print off is spot on, and the online tracking is very good too.
If you want to have a squizz at a chart of mine, help yourself......
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