Learn How to Track Your Cycle Naturally: Why I Went Hormone-Free
Photo by Content Pixie on Unsplash
Are you thinking about ditching hormonal birth control? You’re not alone. I made the switch to hormone-free menstrual cycle tracking over five years ago—and it changed everything for me. I haven’t looked back since. Now, I use natural fertility awareness methods to track my cycle, and I’ve never felt more in tune with my body.
Why I Stopped Using Hormonal Birth Control
Hormonal birth control doesn’t work for everyone. For me, the side effects outweighed the benefits. If you’ve ever struggled with things like:
Forgetting to take the pill on time
Unwanted side effects (mood swings, irregular bleeding, headaches, low libido, weight gain)
Feeling disconnected from your natural cycle
…it might be time to consider an alternative.
I needed something hormone-free, effective, and intuitive. That’s when I found cycle tracking through Basal Body Temperature.
What Is Basal Body Temperature (BBT) and Why Does It Matter
Your Basal Body Temperature is your body’s lowest resting temperature during the day, usually measured first thing in the morning before getting out of bed. This temperature changes slightly throughout your menstrual cycle due to hormonal shifts.
Here’s how BBT helps you understand your cycle. It provides vital information as you get to know your body’s unique rhythm:
Tracking BBT daily helps identify your fertile window, ovulation, and luteal phase.
It gives you insight into how your hormones behave throughout the month.
I use the Daysy Fertility Tracker, a hormone-free device paired with an app. It predicts my fertile and non-fertile days by learning my body’s rhythm over time. It supports me and empowers me to make informed decisions, knowing when I can and cannot conceive.
The Benefits of Hormone-Free Menstrual Cycle Tracking
Switching to natural cycle tracking has taught me more about myself than I could have ever imagined. Here’s why I love tracking my cycle:
1. I Discovered My Unique Hormonal and Symptom Patterns
I now recognize how my energy and mood change throughout my cycle. For example, a few days before my period, I often feel a surge of energy and get things done around the house.
2. I Know When I’m Fertile
My tracker gives me a clear picture of when I ovulate, so I can make informed and empowered decisions about sex, pregnancy prevention, or conception.
3. I Understand and Manage Symptoms
Ten days before menstruation, I tend to feel anxious. Recognizing this pattern has helped me take preventive steps, like drinking more water and adding calming practices to my routine.
4. I Support My Body Based on Each Phase
My energy level is low during menstruation. I support my body by prioritizing rest, doing gentle exercise, and listening to what my body needs instead of pushing through.
5. I Catch Irregularities Early
If my period is late or my cycle feels off, I can look at my data to see what might be causing it. For example, high stress delays my period, so I now know when to slow down and reset.
6. I Bring Accurate Data to My Doctor
When I visit my OBGYN, I show them patterns from my tracking app. I don’t have to guess—I have actual data to discuss. It’s a great way to bring any concerns to my doctor’s attention before they become bigger problems.
Is Hormone-Free Birth Control Right for You?
Hormone-free fertility awareness may not be for everyone, but it has completely transformed how I connect with my body. It’s natural, side-effect-free, and backed by science when done consistently and correctly.
If you're considering switching, start by learning more about your cycle and exploring tools like BBT tracking and the Daysy Fertility Tracker. You might be surprised how much your body has to say when you finally start listening.
