ABSTRACT
PIP: The Billings method of contraception, or cervical mucus method, is being introduced, apparently with great success, in Brazil. This method was studied and perfected by the Drs. Billings during the 1950s in Australia; the book explaining how the method works, was published in 1964, and it was soon followed by many other studies. The method is based on the observation of the cyclic changes of cervical mucus. During the first phase of the cycle, or proliferative phase, the increased estrogen secretion produces abundant, wet, elastic mucus, of a quality very conducive to sperm transport; the peak of the mucus symptom coincides with ovulation or precedes it about 1 day. Couples must refrain from intercouse during this period. The second phase of the cycle, or secretory phase, is characterized by increased progesterone secretion which inhibits production of cervical mucus; these are the infertile days of the cycle; mucus will be scant, and dry. This method, which implies periodic sexual abstinence, can by very advantageously used to prevent or to obtain pregnancy. A couple wanting to use this method will have to carefully chart the daily appearance in quantity and quality of cervical mucus, and will have to be instructed on how to do so. The failure rate of the method goes from 0.48 to 2.9/100 women year. The method is totally safe and it promotes marital communication and understanding.^ieng