Rise in number of women seeking abortions after using ‘natural’ contraception

Natural conception is growing in popularity

Experts have noted an increase in women using fertility tracking apps and other 'natural' contraception methods like using body temperature to predict fertility.

There is a higher chance of pregnancy compared to other contraception methods like condoms and the pill.

However, a huge number of women are leaning towards natural contraception.

Speaking about the rise, lead author Dr. Rosie McNee told the BBC: "The market [for “natural” contraceptives] has exploded. There are hundreds of them and some are more reliable than others. Plus you don't need a prescription, and so you may not get all the information you need."

The failure rates are higher which has seen a rise in women seeking abortions after opting for natural contraception.

Researchers explained that these methods can "increase unintended pregnancies" because they're "less reliable".

The team behind the study analysed data from the British Pregnancy Advisory Service from January to June 2018 and January to June 2023 to see if contraceptive use changed.

0.4% of women used natural contraception in 2018 but this rose to 2.5% in 2023.

They discovered a 14% increase in the number of women using no contraception at all.

Experts warned that some tracking apps are better used to track periods instead of tracking your fertility or family planning.

Dr. McNee added: "Something that really needs scrutiny is the surge in the use of ehealth, including fertility apps and period trackers."

The study was published in the journal BMJ Sexual and Reproductive Health.

You can freephone the My Options helpline for information and support on all your options if you have an unplanned pregnancy. This free helpline gives information on both continued pregnancy supports and abortion services. Free phone 1800 828 010.

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