The fertility awareness method (FAM) is often called ‘natural family planning’ and is promoted as ‘natural’ and may therefore appeal to women who have reservations about using hormonal contraception. FAM is often used by couples planning a pregnancy but it can also be used to avoid pregnancy by using contraception or avoiding sex during the fertile window. However, it is a challenging way to achieve contraception, requiring motivation, commitment and consistency, all of which influence the popularity of this method. FAM is free and success rates are similar to those seen in women using combined hormonal contraception. Women using FAM should be comfortable with a higher risk of pregnancy than with other methods of contraception. FAM is not suitable for women with irregular cycles or those in whom it is imperative not to become pregnant (e.g., for health reasons or because they are taking medication that might harm a developing fetus). It is important to use barrier methods of contraception (usually condoms) if having sex on fertile days (some couples avoid sex on fertile days).