Introduction to Natural Cycles for Birth Control
Natural Cycles is a modern, hormone-free alternative to traditional birth control methods. As the first FDA-cleared app-based contraceptive, it has revolutionized the way women approach family planning by utilizing basal body temperature (BBT) tracking and advanced algorithms to predict fertility. This digital birth control method provides a personalized approach to contraception, allowing users to track their menstrual cycles, identify fertile days, and plan pregnancies naturally.

Unlike hormonal birth control options like the pill, IUDs, or implants, Natural Cycles doesn’t alter your body’s hormone levels, making it an appealing option for those seeking a more natural, non-invasive method of contraception. Whether you’re looking to prevent pregnancy or plan a family, Natural Cycles offers a flexible and science-backed solution.
In this review, we’ll dive into how Natural Cycles works, its effectiveness, ease of use, safety, and real-life experiences from users to help you determine if it’s the right choice for you.
Effectiveness of Natural Cycles Birth Control
When considering birth control options, effectiveness is one of the most crucial factors. In this Natural Cycles birth control review, we’ll examine how reliable this digital contraceptive method is and what factors influence its accuracy.
How Effective Is Natural Cycles?
Natural Cycles is an FDA-cleared fertility tracking app that uses the basal body temperature (BBT) method to predict ovulation and identify fertile and non-fertile days. Its effectiveness depends on how consistently and correctly it is used.
- Perfect Use Effectiveness: According to clinical studies, Natural Cycles is 98% effective when used perfectly. This means that out of 100 women using it correctly for one year, only two will experience an unintended pregnancy.
- Typical Use Effectiveness: In real-life conditions, where occasional errors (such as missing temperature readings or misinterpreting fertile days) may occur, the effectiveness drops to 93%. This makes it comparable to the effectiveness of birth control pills in typical use.
Factors That Influence Its Accuracy
Several factors can impact the accuracy of Natural Cycles:
- Consistent Temperature Tracking – The app relies on accurate daily temperature readings. Missing days or inconsistent measurements can affect predictions.
- Menstrual Cycle Regularity – Women with highly irregular cycles may find it less reliable, as ovulation timing can be unpredictable.
- External Factors – Illness, alcohol consumption, or poor sleep can affect temperature readings, potentially leading to inaccurate predictions.
- User Compliance – The more diligently a user follows the guidelines, the higher the effectiveness.
Comparison With Other Birth Control Methods
To put the effectiveness of Natural Cycles into perspective, here’s how it compares with other methods:
Birth Control Method | Perfect Use Effectiveness | Typical Use Effectiveness |
---|---|---|
Natural Cycles | 98% | 93% |
Birth Control Pill | 99% | 91% |
Copper IUD | 99.9% | 99.9% |
Condoms | 98% | 85% |
While Natural Cycles is highly effective for those who use it correctly, it requires more commitment and consistency compared to long-term contraceptive options like IUDs.
Who Is Natural Cycles Best For?
Natural Cycles is ideal for:
✔️ Women looking for a hormone-free contraceptive option.
✔️ Those who are disciplined with daily temperature tracking.
✔️ Women with relatively regular menstrual cycles.
✔️ Individuals who want a dual-purpose tool for both contraception and pregnancy planning.
However, it may not be the best option for those who prefer a more hands-off birth control method or have highly irregular cycles.
Ease of Use & User Experience – Natural Cycles Birth Control Review
When choosing a birth control method, ease of use is just as important as effectiveness. In this Natural Cycles birth control review, we’ll explore how user-friendly the app is, from setup to daily tracking, and highlight key features that impact the overall experience.
Getting Started: How Easy Is It to Set Up?
Setting up Natural Cycles is a straightforward process:
- Download the App – Available on both iOS and Android.
- Subscribe to a Plan – Users must choose a subscription plan, which often includes a basal body thermometer.
- Take Basal Temperature Daily – Each morning, before getting out of bed, users measure their temperature and input the reading into the app.
- Follow Daily Fertility Status – The app analyzes data and provides a “Green Day” (safe for unprotected sex) or “Red Day” (use protection or avoid intercourse).
The onboarding process is well-designed, with clear instructions and educational content to help new users understand how the method works.
Daily Use: Is Natural Cycles Easy to Maintain?
Using Natural Cycles requires a commitment to daily temperature tracking. While the process is simple, consistency is key to accurate fertility predictions.
- User-Friendly Interface – The app has an intuitive dashboard displaying fertility status in an easy-to-understand color-coded format.
- Smart Notifications & Reminders – Users receive reminders to take their temperature, ensuring they stay on track.
- Integration with Wearable Devices – For added convenience, Natural Cycles can sync with devices like the Oura Ring, automating temperature tracking.
Learning Curve: How Easy Is It to Adapt?
Unlike traditional contraceptive methods like the pill or IUD, Natural Cycles requires active participation. Some users may experience an adjustment period as they get used to daily temperature tracking and understanding their cycle.
- Educational Resources – The app provides in-depth explanations about fertility science to help users interpret their data.
- Customer Support & Community – Natural Cycles offers FAQs, support teams, and community forums where users can share experiences and get advice.
Common User Challenges
While Natural Cycles is designed to be user-friendly, some challenges include:
❌ Forgetting to take morning temperature readings – Missing multiple days can reduce accuracy.
❌ Disruptions from lifestyle factors – Factors like irregular sleep, illness, or alcohol can affect temperature readings.
❌ Patience required for learning phase – The app takes time to gather enough data to provide the most accurate cycle predictions.
Who Will Find Natural Cycles Easy to Use?
✔️ Individuals who prefer a natural, hormone-free birth control method.
✔️ Those who are disciplined with daily routines.
✔️ Women looking for an easy-to-use digital fertility tracker.
✔️ Users comfortable with technology and mobile apps.
Cost & Value for Money – Natural Cycles Birth Control Review
When choosing a birth control method, affordability is an important factor to consider. In this Natural Cycles birth control review, we’ll break down the cost of using Natural Cycles, compare it to other contraceptive options, and evaluate whether it offers good value for money.

How Much Does Natural Cycles Cost?
Natural Cycles operates on a subscription-based model. Here’s an overview of its pricing:
- Monthly Plan: Around $12.99 per month (billed monthly).
- Annual Plan: Around $89.99 per year (billed once per year, equivalent to $7.50 per month).
- Basal Thermometer: Typically included in the subscription, but can also be purchased separately for around $15-$30 if needed.
Users who prefer automatic temperature tracking can opt for the Natural Cycles + Oura Ring bundle, which can cost $299+ but removes the need for manual temperature readings.
Are There Free Trials or Discounts?
Natural Cycles occasionally offers:
✔ Free trial periods for new users.
✔ Student discounts and promotions.
✔ Bundle deals when purchasing the Oura Ring integration.
Checking the official website for ongoing promotions can help users save on subscription costs.
How Does Natural Cycles Compare to Other Birth Control Methods?
To determine its value for money, let’s compare Natural Cycles’ costs to other popular birth control methods:
Birth Control Method | Cost | Subscription/One-Time Fee? |
---|---|---|
Natural Cycles | $89.99/year | Subscription-based |
Birth Control Pills | $0 – $600/year | Depends on insurance |
Copper IUD | $0 – $1,300 (one-time) | One-time cost, lasts up to 10 years |
Hormonal IUD | $0 – $1,500 (one-time) | One-time cost, lasts 3-7 years |
Condoms | $100 – $300/year | Pay per use |
Compared to daily birth control pills or IUD insertion, Natural Cycles is more affordable upfront, though it requires a recurring subscription. However, it lacks the added benefits of STI protection that condoms provide.
Is Natural Cycles Worth the Money?
✔ Great for those seeking a hormone-free contraceptive method.
✔ More affordable than some traditional contraceptives, especially for those without insurance.
✔ Dual-purpose app that helps with both pregnancy prevention and planning.
✔ Convenient digital tracking system with no additional medical procedures required.
❌ Requires ongoing subscription payments.
❌ Not as foolproof as IUDs or implants, which require little to no daily maintenance.
Safety & Side Effects – Natural Cycles Birth Control Review
When choosing a birth control method, safety and potential side effects are key concerns. In this Natural Cycles birth control review, we’ll explore how safe this digital contraceptive method is, whether it has any risks or side effects, and who it is best suited for.
Is Natural Cycles Safe to Use?
Natural Cycles is FDA-cleared and CE-marked as a medical device, meaning it has undergone scientific evaluation to confirm its safety and effectiveness. Unlike hormonal birth control methods, it does not introduce synthetic hormones into the body, making it a natural and non-invasive alternative.
Since Natural Cycles is a fertility awareness-based method, its safety depends largely on how consistently and correctly it is used. Users must track their basal body temperature daily to receive accurate fertility predictions.
Does Natural Cycles Have Side Effects?
One of the biggest advantages of Natural Cycles is that it has no direct physical side effects because it does not alter the body’s hormones. This makes it a great option for women who experience negative reactions to hormonal contraceptives, such as:
- Weight gain
- Mood swings
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Irregular bleeding
However, while Natural Cycles itself does not cause these issues, some users may experience stress or anxiety related to tracking their cycle and avoiding pregnancy on red days.
Potential Risks and Drawbacks
Even though Natural Cycles is safe, there are some risks to consider:
❌ Higher Risk of Human Error – The app’s effectiveness depends on the user’s ability to consistently track temperature and follow fertility guidance. Missing temperature readings or miscalculating fertile days can lead to unintended pregnancy.
❌ Not Suitable for Irregular Sleep Patterns – Since body temperature is affected by sleep, users with irregular sleep schedules (such as shift workers or new mothers) may have difficulty obtaining reliable readings.
❌ No Protection Against STIs – Unlike condoms, Natural Cycles does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If STI protection is a concern, it should be used in combination with barrier methods.
Who Should and Shouldn’t Use Natural Cycles?
✔ Best for:
- Women looking for a hormone-free contraceptive option.
- Those who are highly disciplined in tracking their cycle.
- Couples in a monogamous relationship where STI protection isn’t a concern.
- Women who also want to use the app for pregnancy planning in the future.
❌ May not be suitable for:
- Women with highly irregular cycles, as fertility predictions may be less accurate.
- Individuals who struggle with daily routine tracking.
- Those who need immediate birth control after childbirth or stopping hormonal contraception (as the app requires time to learn the cycle).
User Reviews & Real-Life Testimonials – Natural Cycles Birth Control Review
When choosing a birth control method, real user experiences can provide valuable insights. In this Natural Cycles birth control review, we’ll explore what users are saying about the app, highlighting both positive and negative feedback to give you a well-rounded perspective.
What Do Users Love About Natural Cycles?
Many users praise Natural Cycles for its hormone-free approach and easy-to-use app interface. Here are some of the most common positive experiences shared by users:
✔ No Hormonal Side Effects – Unlike birth control pills, implants, or hormonal IUDs, Natural Cycles doesn’t introduce synthetic hormones into the body. Users report feeling more balanced, with fewer mood swings, headaches, or weight changes.
✔ User-Friendly & Informative – Many women appreciate how the app educates them about their menstrual cycles. The color-coded fertility status (green for safe days, red for fertile days) makes it easy to understand.
✔ Effective for Pregnancy Planning & Prevention – Several users who initially used Natural Cycles for contraception found it helpful when they decided to switch to pregnancy planning. The app’s ability to predict ovulation accurately is a standout feature.
✔ Integration with Wearable Devices – Users who track their temperature with the Oura Ring or other wearable devices find it more convenient, as it eliminates the need for manual temperature readings every morning.
⭐ Real User Testimonial (Positive Experience)
“I’ve been using Natural Cycles for over a year now, and I love it! I wanted a hormone-free birth control option, and this app has helped me understand my body so much better. As long as you’re consistent with taking your temperature, it’s very reliable.” – Emily, 29″
Common Complaints & Challenges
While many users find Natural Cycles effective, others highlight some downsides:
❌ Requires Consistency – Some users struggle with the daily temperature tracking requirement. If you forget to take your temperature regularly, the app may become less reliable.
❌ Not Ideal for Irregular Sleep Schedules – Women who work night shifts or have inconsistent sleep patterns may find their temperature readings less accurate, affecting the app’s predictions.
❌ Higher Risk of User Error – Unlike an IUD or birth control pill, Natural Cycles requires active participation. Some users who missed readings or misinterpreted their cycle experienced unintended pregnancies.
❌ No STI Protection – A common drawback mentioned in reviews is that Natural Cycles does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), making it necessary to use condoms or other barrier methods in certain situations.
⭐ Real User Testimonial (Negative Experience)
“I really wanted to love Natural Cycles, but after a few months, I found it hard to stick to. My sleep schedule is all over the place, and my temperature readings weren’t consistent enough. I ended up switching to another birth control method.” – Sarah, 25″
Overall User Ratings
Based on aggregated reviews from platforms like Trustpilot, the App Store, and Google Play, Natural Cycles typically receives:
- 4.2 to 4.5 stars on average.
- Most positive reviews highlight ease of use, hormone-free benefits, and fertility tracking accuracy.
- Negative reviews often focus on the need for strict adherence, unintended pregnancies due to incorrect usage, and lack of STI protection.
Conclusion for the Natural Cycles Birth Control Review
- In this Natural Cycles birth control review, we’ve explored how effective the app is as a contraceptive method. When used correctly, it offers a non-hormonal and science-backed approach to birth control. However, like any method, its success depends on user consistency and adherence to guidelines.
- In this Natural Cycles birth control review, we’ve explored the app’s ease of use and overall user experience. While Natural Cycles offers a well-designed, intuitive platform, success depends on the user’s ability to track temperature consistently. For those who prefer a non-hormonal birth control option and are committed to daily tracking, Natural Cycles can be a valuable and user-friendly solution.
- In this Natural Cycles birth control review, we’ve explored the cost of using the app and how it compares to other contraceptive options. While it requires a recurring subscription, its affordability and ease of use make it a solid choice for those looking for a natural, non-hormonal method of contraception.
- In this Natural Cycles birth control review, we’ve explored the safety of the app and its potential risks. While it offers a natural, hormone-free alternative to traditional birth control, its effectiveness relies heavily on user consistency. For women who prefer non-invasive contraception and are comfortable tracking their cycle, Natural Cycles can be a safe and reliable option.
- In this Natural Cycles birth control review, we’ve explored real user experiences—both the positive and the challenging aspects. The app works well for individuals who are dedicated to tracking their cycle accurately and want a hormone-free alternative. However, it may not be the best choice for those with irregular sleep patterns or inconsistent habits.
[…] Natural Cycles Birth Control Review – Why It Is Become The Best Birth Control – 2025 […]
[…] Natural Cycles Birth Control Review – Why It Is Become The Best Birth Control – 2025 […]