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Inspiring Conversations with Chanana McGarry of Womb Literacy

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chanana McGarry.

Chanana McGarry

Hi Chanana, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey into womb wellness began with a deep curiosity about alternative perspectives and a desire to connect with my body’s wisdom. After experiencing two unplanned pregnancies and navigating the challenges of single motherhood, the importance of reproductive sovereignty—being empowered to decide when and how to become a mother was in the forefront of my mind.

I found the Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) and dedicated myself to mastering it as a natural, hormone-free contraception, scientifically proven to be as effective as the pill. FAM not only gave me control over my fertility but also provided a deeper understanding of my reproductive health, becoming my “5th vital sign.”

Inspired by the transformative power of FAM, I enrolled in a 2 year program at The Well School of Body Literacy to help women reclaim their bodies and sexual health through this method. My work is rooted in ancestral wisdom passed down through my connection to the Mujuji lineage of Rain Queens of Southern Africa, where water is life and fertility is sacred. My grandmother was a water healer and prophet, and her ancestors were Hosana dancers—those entrusted with the task of going to the mountains and singing and dancing prayers for rain. These deep watery roots connected the dots of my lifelong, intimate connection with water, fertility, and ancient wisdom.

Through my practice, Womb Literacy, I teach women to read and understand the language of their wombs, empowering them to take control of their health, avoid hormonal birth control, and reconnect with their cyclical nature. It’s time to redefine birth control and normalize womb literacy.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The biggest challenge is shifting the traditional narratives around women’s sexual healthcare and contraception.

I’m passionate about helping women understand the importance of womb literacy—whether or not they plan to have children. We are not meant to suffer through painful, imbalanced periods when there are holistic, scientifically proven alternatives to drugs and surgery that address the root cause of pain and imbalance.

Additionally, its sometimes a challenge to help women understand and embrace true choice and informed consent when it comes to our contraceptive options. Most women don’t realize that the World Health Organization’s research group on carcinogens classified hormonal birth control in the most deadly category of cancer causing substances. Meanwhile, the Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) has been scientifically studied for over 50 years, has only positive side effects, and is as effective as the pill.

Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misinformation out there about FAM, especially from those with minimal training. While there’s much work to be done, I’m excited to continue empowering women with accurate knowledge, effective holistic solutions, and the wisdom of my ancestors.

We’ve been impressed with Womb Literacy, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business, Womb Literacy, is dedicated to helping women reconnect with their bodies, their cycles, and their reproductive health through a powerful blend of ancient wisdom and modern science.

What sets me apart is the ancestral wisdom I bring into my practice. I have an direct connection to the Mujuji lineage of the Rain Queens of Southern Africa, where water is life and, fertility and healing are sacred. My grandmother, a water healer and prophet, passed down this powerful lineage, and I integrate these teachings into my work. Just as water nourishes the earth and facilitates growth, I believe that ancient wisdom coupled with modern science can nourish and restore balance in women’s bodies, allowing them to thrive naturally and holistically.

I specialize in guiding women to use the Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) as a natural, hormone-free method of contraception, empowering them to make informed choices about their fertility and sexual health. I also teach women to read and understand the “language” of their wombs—helping them heal imbalances from a mind, body and spirit approach. FAM is not only a proven method for avoiding pregnancy (99.6% effective), but it also offers deep insights into overall health, making it a valuable tool for all cycling women, whether or not they plan to have children.

What I’m most proud of is how Womb Literacy helps women reclaim their sexual health and sovereignty, offering alternatives to conventional birth control and a path to reconnecting to the ancient, sacred wisdom of their wombs. My clients often say, “Why didn’t anyone teach me this sooner?”—and that’s exactly what drives me to share this vital knowledge. Womb Literacy is not just about contraception; it’s about empowering women to understand their bodies, heal holistically, and tap into the ancient wisdom of their cycles. I’m proud to be part of a movement that redefines birth control, our connections to our bodies and offers a unique, authentic, and deeply holistic approach to wellness.

I offer both in-person and online education and either one-on-one or via group classes, as well as teach at several national ancestral skills gatherings throughout the year. I am available as a guest moderator for retreats as well as offering speaking engagements.

What does success mean to you?
I define success as feeling good and flourishing in doing what you were brought here to the world to do. Helping people and giving back in ways that bring joy to your heart and filling a need that only you can fill. Womb Literacy aligns fully with my purpose in the world as a natural healer with a long term fascination with ancient wisdom and holistic healing. Through surrendering to the journey, I find it is unfolding in ways beyond my wildest dreams.

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