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rhythm method
noun
: a method of birth control involving abstinence during the period in which ovulation is most likely to occur
Examples of rhythm method in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In 1957, the church allowed women with irregular cycles take the pill to regulate them and better enable them to practice the rhythm method but still does not allow the use of the pill solely for birth control.
—Mary Whitfill Roeloffs, Forbes, 26 Sep. 2024
Neither is using an internal condom or the rhythm method.
—Leah Ansell, Verywell Health, 24 Dec. 2023
After all, the rhythm method helped my parents with family planning back ...
—Teresa M. Hanafin, BostonGlobe.com, 5 Nov. 2022
Predictions made using these forms of analysis are similar to what’s known as the rhythm method, which has long been used to prevent pregnancy.
—WIRED, 2 Nov. 2022
Condoms, withdrawal, the Sponge, fertility awareness (rhythm method) and spermicide — which can be among the less effective forms of pregnancy prevention — are not included.
—Julie Washington, cleveland, 11 July 2022
Luardo and her boyfriend opted for a calendar rhythm method to avoid pregnancy, considered one of the least effective forms of birth control.
—David Pierson, Los Angeles Times, 6 Jan. 2021
Out of rhythm method Of course, these are the ideal conditions; the reality is much messier, and, all in all, BBT is not a reliable proxy for ovulation.
—Beth Mole, Ars Technica, 15 Aug. 2018
By contrast, the rhythm method relies on recording the length of past menstrual cycles to determine one’s fertile window.
—Saabira Chaudhuri, WSJ, 24 May 2018
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'rhythm method.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1934, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near rhythm method
Cite this Entry
“Rhythm method.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rhythm%20method. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
rhythm method
noun
: a method of birth control in which a couple does not have sexual intercourse during the time when ovulation is most likely to occur
Medical Definition
rhythm method
noun
: a method of birth control involving abstinence during the period in which ovulation is most likely to occur
More from Merriam-Webster on rhythm method
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about rhythm method
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