Non-hormonal birth control methods are safe and effective in protecting against unwanted pregnancy. These do not have side effects as seen in hormonal birth control options. For instance, birth control pills can cause nausea for some, but non-hormonal methods will not.
So why should you use non-hormonal birth control devices and techniques? In this post, we will discuss different types of barrier methods and their details.
1. Male Condom
A male condom is a thin sheath. It is preferably made from silicone or latex. There are other materials used to make a condom as well. The man wears it over his penile organ during intimacy. So, when intercourse happens, the semen does not escape into the body of the woman.
This makes it quite successful in preventing an unwanted pregnancy. It is the most popular form of non-hormonal birth control. Also, it can protect against HIV and other STDs to an extent when you use it correctly. You can easily find one on the internet and nearby pharmacies. You do not need a prescription.
It is not much you have to do when using a condom. Just wear it properly so that the sheath does not come off or tear during intercourse.
2. Female Condom
A female condom is a latex tube with flexible rings at either end. It is a lubricated product that you need to put in the vagina. One end of a female condom is closed. This is to block sperm from entering the woman’s body. It is also effective in protecting against sexually transmitted diseases.
As for birth control, you have to use it correctly every time to get protection from unwanted pregnancy. Place the condom properly inside the vagina as per the instruction on the label. Or, it may slip off and interfere with the intimate act.
3. Copper IUD
A Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD) is a T-shaped plastic piece. The doctor will insert it in the uterus to keep the sperm away and restrict implantation. The device is wrapped in copper. This metal is dangerous for sperm and affects its motility. So, the sperm may not mate with the egg.
In case fertilization takes place, implantation does not. A Copper IUD is one of the most successful types of non-hormonal birth control options. It is not as effective as a hormonal IUD. But it can still stop the risk of conceiving 99% of the time.
What makes Copper IUDs special is that one inserted can last for up to 10 years. In emergencies, it can also act as emergency contraception when used up to 5 days after unprotected intercourse. If you want to conceive, you can get the IUD removed beforehand. This device may have side effects such as bleeding between periods and abdomen cramps.
4. Spermicide
This is a chemical holding the power to destroy sperm. Spermicides are available over the counter in the form of foams, gels, and suppositories. You can use it with other types of birth control methods to safeguard against pregnancy. You can apply it with diaphragms, condoms, etc.
If you are allergic to the spermicide chemical: nonoxynol-9, then you must not use it. If you find an allergic reaction on the vagina, then stop using the chemical right away. Remember, a spermicide will not shield you from sexually transmitted infections and diseases.
In case you get pregnant and want to get rid of it, then you can opt for an abortion. This can be carried out with surgery or Mifepristone + Misoprostol tablets. These tablets come in a medication pack together. You can buy MTP Kit online and use the abortion pills safely as per the doctor’s instructions.
5. Diaphragm
The doctor has to fit a diaphragm onto your vagina. It is a silicone cup shaped like a saucer. The barrier device helps to stop semen from entering the uterus. When added with spermicide, a diaphragm is quite effective in preventing pregnancy. This is true if you use the product correctly.
But if you use the device incorrectly, then the risk of pregnancy increases. You can reuse a diaphragm for a year. Also, you can put it right before intercourse. But you have to leave it on for at least 8 hours after intimacy. If you want to plan a pregnancy, then you can stop using it and conceive.
6. Sponge
A Sponge contains spermicide. It is available over the counter. Since it has spermicide, the success rate is higher than individual use of the diaphragm. But it works only 91% of the time for females who use it consistently and correctly every time and have not yet given birth. Thus, people often use other forms of non-hormonal birth control methods.
The success rate of Sponge reduces in women who already birthed kids. To conceive again, just stop using this barrier method. It is polyurethane foam and easily insertable in the vagina. Most of the time, it does not impact intimacy. You can have normal intercourse in 24 hours and not get pregnant.
7. Vaginal Gel
A birth control vaginal gel contains chemicals restricting the rise of the pH level of the vagina. This affects the movement of the sperm. And due to this, sperm may not enter the uterus and reach the egg. The product is 86% effective. You can apply vaginal gel and use it with diaphragms, condoms, etc.
You need to use the vaginal gel before intercourse. And then reapply the same in an hour if intercourse does not take place till then. Like condoms, you need to use them in every sexual encounter. But unlike condoms, they cannot prevent STIs and STDs.
8. Cervical Cap
It is a silicone device shaped like a hat. You have to fit it over the cervix. Like a diaphragm, a cervical cap will block sperm from entering the reproductive canal. It is a doctor that has to put the cervical cap on the cervix. The success rate is 80% for this product. You have to keep the cap on for up to 48 hours after intimacy.
But doctors usually do not prescribe cervical caps. This device may increase the risk of bladder infections. Also, it is not recommended for women who have a history of pelvic diseases. Females who have intercourse at least thrice a week can also seek an alternative instead.
To Sum it Up
Non Hormonal birth control methods are easy to use. And most of these are available over the counter. Speak to your doctor today if you want to discuss your choices regarding this type of contraception.
