[supercat]

BTW, my understanding of the "rhythm" method of contraception is that it's intended to maximize the likelihood that in the event that an ovum gets fertilized it will not manage to implant successfully. Doesn't that mean people practicing the rhythm method are actively trying to kill any embryos they might conceive?

[mcg1969]

BTW, my understanding of the "rhythm" method of contraception is that it's intended to maximize the likelihood that in the event that an ovum gets fertilized it will not manage to implant successfully. Doesn't that mean people practicing the rhythm method are actively trying to kill any embryos they might conceive?

No, this isn't the case. Generally speaking, ovulation occurs primarily at a point in the cycle that is quite favorable to implantation---when the uterine wall is well-prepared. So the primary effect of the rhythm method is to prevent conception, not implantation.

I do believe that it is possible for a woman to ovulate outside of that time frame on occasion. I've heard it can be in response to some stimulus (like sex) or spontaneous. I guess in that case there is a lower chance of implanation. But someone practicing the rhythm method isn't necessarily encouraging this phenomenon any more than someone who is not.

Someone please correct me if I'm wrong.