Model Marriage by Bishop Dag Heward Mills

Model Marriage

iii. Cervical mucus

It is based on the female observation of a sequence of changes in the quality and quantity of
cervical mucus during the menstrual cycle. Immediately after a menstrual period, the vaginal
orifice feels dry, but as ovulation time approaches, mucus can be detected. Initially, it is cloudy
and sticky, but as the level of estrogen rises, more mucus is produced. It becomes clearer, strands
stretch without breaking and it feels slippery. The peak of the clear mucus is reached on the day
of ovulation, after which the mucus becomes cloudy again.^3

2. The Barrier Methods

(a) The Condom

The condom (also called a prophylactic, pro, sheath, or rubber) fits over the erect penis to
receive the semen and keep any sperm from entering the vagina during ejaculation. Around the
world the condom is still the most widely used effective birth-control measure. Here are a few
simple instructions for using the condom successfully:

1. The condom must be put on before intercourse. Contact between the penis and the
   vaginal area should be avoided until the condom is fitted over the erect penis,
   because the initial fluid which seeps from the penis may contain sperm cells.


2. Allow one-half inch of space at the end of the penis as a reservoir where the semen
   can collect in the condom. Otherwise, the semen will provide so much lubrication
   to the shaft of the penis that the condom might slip off.


3. Continue to unroll the condom all the way to the base of the penis.


4. Very soon after ejaculation, while the penis is still erect, carefully and slowly
   withdraw it from the vagina. You should hold the condom in place at the base of
   the penis. (If the erection is first allowed to subside, the condom may slip off.)


5. If the condom should slip off during intercourse, grasp the open end of it and pull
   it out of the vagina with care so as not to lose the contents. Then the wife should
   douche immediately and lather externally with soap and water.


6. Each time intercourse is repeated, a clean condom must be used.

Advantages:

1. It is easy to use.


2. There are no side effects.


3. It can be purchased at any drugstore without a prescription.


4. It puts the responsibility on the husband, which some wives consider a
   distinct advantage.


5. Immediately after intercourse there is visible proof of its effectiveness.


6. It effectively prevents the spread of most diseases which are transmitted
   through intercourse.