Materials and Publications on the Standard Days Method™


Resources for Providers  (Unless otherwise noted, all resources are available from the Institute for Reproductive Health and can be ordered on-line at www.irh.org, via e-mail at irhinfo@georgetown.edu, by fax at 202-537-7450, or by mail at:

Institute for Reproductive Health
4301 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 310
Washington, DC 20008

Institute materials are available at no cost to selected organizations that support family planning and reproductive health programs in developing countries.  Prices given are for organizations in developed countries only. Shipping and handling are additional.  Checks are payable to Georgetown University/IRH.  Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery.

CycleBeads™  

CycleBeads are a color-coded string of beads designed to help women visually track their cycle days. They are based on the Standard Days Method of family planning, which identifies a fertile window for women who have regular menstrual cycles between 26 and 32 days long. CycleBeads are distributed with a package insert that explains how to use them and provides answers to frequently asked questions. It also includes a self-screening section to help users determine whether the method is appropriate for them. (English, Spanish and French) 

Price varies by number ordered.  Available on-line at www.cyclebeads.com, or for more information about ordering CycleBeads send an e-mail to info@cyclebeads.com or write to:

Cycle Technologies
PO Box 250027
New York, NY 10025

Standard Days Method of Family Planning: Reference Guide for Counseling Clients  

This comprehensive guide for providers explains how to appropriately counsel women and couples on the Standard Days Method using CycleBeads. The guide describes for whom the Standard Days Method is most appropriate and the key aspects covered in a counseling session.  It directs the provider through the counseling process in an interactive and easy-to-read format.  (English, Spanish and French) $15.00

Standard Days Method of Family Planning: A Training for Service Providers

The manual guides trainers through the process of training providers in the Standard Days Method, using CycleBeads. It includes information for designing, conducting and evaluating training programs, and addresses issues critical to the successful use of the method, such as the couple’s relationship and gender issues. The content can be adapted to all types of providers, ranging from clinicians to community personnel with limited knowledge of reproductive health and family planning. Available in English (Spanish and French in February 2003) $45.00

Standard Days Method Tutorial: A Simple Fertility Awareness Based Approach to Family Planning. (CD Rom)

Produced in collaboration with John Hopkins University, this 22-minute tutorial brings a Standard Days Method expert to the learner through a multimedia experience that includes an audio presentation, presentation graphics, closed-captioned and downloadable text transcript and resources, frequently asked questions and a self–grading quiz. Ideal for those interested in providing SDM services in their programs, the tutorial explains how the method works, its development, biological basis and contraceptive effectiveness, the service delivery process, and how to incorporate the SDM into existing services. (English and Spanish) $5.00

CycleBeads: An easy way to use the Standard Days Method (video or CD Rom)

This 5-minute introductory audio-visual is appropriate for providers and clients.  It explains how to use CycleBeads and how the method is being used in diverse settings. It also emphasizes the importance of informed choice. (English)  $5.00

CycleBeads™: Natural, effective family planning (Brochure)

This informative brochure explains the Standard Days Method, how to use it, and outlines its advantages and disadvantages. It includes a self-assessment for the reader to determine if the method is appropriate for her. (English and Spanish) Single copies are free, for bulk quantities contact the Institute at irhinfo@georgetown.edu, or call 202-687-1392.

Standard Days Method Training Program

The Institute for Reproductive Health conducts training programs for trainers and service providers.  Training programs include participant materials, a pre-training assessment plan, as well as pre- and post-training consultation with participants.  Participant materials include a Counseling Guide, job aids, a CD Rom, and samples of CycleBeads. Contact the Institute at irhinfo@georgetown.edu, or call 202-687-1392.  (Training is available in English, Spanish and French.)  Price varies by location, length of training, and number of participants.