WOOMB

Teaching the Billings Ovulation Method

The Correlation of Physiological Events of the Female Reproductive Cycle with Observations Made at the Vulva
Dr E.L.Billings AM, MBBS, DCH (Lond.)

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The Basic Infertile Pattern

The Basic Infertile Pattern is an unchanging pattern and reflects cervical inactivity. In cycles of average length it is recognized by:

Unchanging dryness (Figure 3), or
Dry vulva with a small amount of mucus seen and which is the same every day. Figure 4 illustrates a Basic Infertile Pattern of mucus. Three cycles are studied (4a, 4b, 4c ) in order to identify correctly the point of change of (i) sensation or (ii) the appearance of the mucus or both.

Figure 4 (a) - (c) Basic Infertile Pattern of mucus remains the same day after day, cycle after cycle [initially recorded with a white baby stamp or the symbol (4a) but then recorded with a yellow stamp or the symbol when the pattern is seen to be unchanging (4b, 4c)]. There is no entry of sperm into the cervix because of the plug of mucus.

(a)
Stamp

Symbol

Sensation/
Appearance
of discharge

Wet

Sticky

Dry
Slight Mucus

(b)
Stamp

Symbol

Sensation/
Appearance
of discharge

Wet

Sticky

Dry
Slight Mucus

Symbol

Sensation/
Appearance
of discharge

Wet

Sticky

Dry
Slight Mucus

The ovaries are quiescent. Very little oestrogen is being produced. The cervix is occluded and there is no sperm penetration. If the discharge remains the same day after day for three cycles, it is a sign of infertility. The vulva feels dry and the mucus, which results from small fragments breaking off from the lower part of the plug, is slight and cloudy. This unchanging pattern of infertility is common for many women.