In the rhythm method of birth control, the couple refrains from intercourse

Options

A. One day before and after ovulation
B. Two days before and after ovulation
C. Three days before and after ovulation
D. One week before and after ovulation

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Rhythm Method**: The rhythm method, also known as natural family planning (NFP), is a birth control technique that involves tracking a woman's menstrual cycle to determine her fertile days. Couples avoid sexual intercourse during this fertile window to prevent pregnancy.

2. **Identifying the Menstrual Cycle**: The menstrual cycle typically lasts about 28 days, although it can vary between 21 to 35 days for different women. The cycle can be divided into four phases:
- **Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5)**: Shedding of the uterine lining occurs.
- **Follicular Phase (Days 6-14)**: Follicles in the ovaries mature, leading up to ovulation.
- **Ovulation (Day 14)**: The mature egg is released from the ovary.
- **Luteal Phase (Days 15-28)**: The body prepares for a possible pregnancy.

3. **Determining Fertile Days**: Ovulation typically occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle. The days leading up to and following ovulation are considered fertile. This means that the couple should avoid intercourse during this time to prevent pregnancy.

4. **Calculating the Fertile Window**: The fertile window is usually considered to be three days before ovulation and three days after ovulation. Therefore, if ovulation occurs on day 14, the fertile window would be from day 11 to day 17.

5. **Conclusion**: In the rhythm method of birth control, the couple refrains from intercourse three days before and three days after ovulation. Thus, the correct answer is that the couple refrains from intercourse **three days before and after ovulation**.