Non Hormonal birth controls are contraceptive methods that prevent pregnancy without affecting a woman’s hormones. Some people look for non hormonal contraceptives as they simply want to avoid pregnancy without hormonal contraceptives and their side effects. Let’s understand the common non hormonal contraceptives and their usage.
People also prefer non hormonal contraceptives if :
- They don’t have intercourse very often
- They don’t want to affect body’s natural hormonal levels for any reason
- They want a backup in addition to hormonal contraceptives
Diaphragm
A diaphragm is a small, flexible cup made of silicone or latex. It works by blocking the sperm from reaching the egg and thus preventing fusion. Diaphragms are about 94% effective. Diaphragms are usually used along with spermicide creams or gel and you can leave the diaphragm in for about 24 hours.
Although diaphragms are effective, there are some associated risks and side effects. It can also cause latex or silicone allergy depending on the type of material used. Sometimes it is also associated with increasing the risk of urinary tract infections and rarely toxic shock syndrome or TSS.
Condoms
Condoms are the most common and popular type of contraceptives and it is non hormonal. They are the only contraceptives that can provide protection to sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The reason behind condoms being so widely used is that they are easily available, easy to use and don't need any prescription. There are two types of condoms:
Male condoms are used by men to cover the penis and work by keeping the sperm inside the condom during sex. They come in a wide variety of different colors, flavors for oral sex. Male condoms are about 82 percent effective when used generally.
Female condoms can be used by the women, they fit into the vagina and prevent sperm from reaching past the cervix.
Sterilization
Sterilisation is a technique which is almost 100% effective. This technique of contraception is for both men and women. In females it is called tubal ligation, which blocks the fallopian tubes to prevent an egg from reaching the uterus. In male it is called vasectomy, where the doctors cut and tie the tubes responsible for carrying sperm outside the testis.
Natural family planning
In natural family planning, you can prevent pregnancy by timing your intercourse away from ovulation time. Although it’s hard to notice the physical signs during ovulation, you may notice a lot of cervical mucus, an increase in body temperature around ovulation or track your menstrual cycle to calculate your ovulation window.
If you are confused about the type of birth control method to choose consult to a gynaecologist. Visit gytree.com for the right guidance from expert gynaecologists.