Contrary to what we’re all told, hormonal contraceptives are not the only effective option for birth control. If you’ve decided to finally ditch the hormones forever, or if you’re contemplating taking the leap, you’ll still need to know how to manage your fertile window if abstinence isn’t your thing.

Contraception can be used during the learning phase of fertility awareness and charting, when you’re still learning about your body’s unique menstrual cycle, and on wonky days when you’re just not sure (they happen to everyone!).

So forget what you were told in sex ed, I’m breaking down for you the most effective contraceptive options for managing your fertile window that are 100% hormone-free.