Written by Jessica Edge, ND |
Non-hormonal birth control methods do not interfere with a woman’s natural reproductive cycle. They work by preventing the meeting of the male sperm and female egg cells without altering female hormone levels or suppressing ovulation. Women are inquiring about non-hormonal birth control methods for a number of reasons: they do not want to disrupt their natural hormone levels, they have health challenges that prevent them from safely using hormonal contraceptives or they do not tolerate the side effects of prescription hormones.
Fertility Awareness Technique
The Fertility Awareness Technique, or the Family Planning Method, teaches women to recognize when they are ovulating and most likely to become pregnant. During ovulation, intercourse is either avoided or a barrier method, such as a condom, is used. The technique requires a woman to monitor and record physical changes in her body during the course of the entire month. She must keep track of her morning body temperature and learn to recognize changes in her cervical mucus. Specific thermometers, charts and calendars are recommended. This technique brings a woman in touch with her fertility and requires a certain level of comfort with her body. Women who have regular menstrual cycles, are motivated to keep track of their physical changes and are in committed, monogamous relationship may consider this method. Cooperation by the spouse or partner is also very important. The effectiveness of the technique at preventing pregnancy is controversial and varies among different sources. The FDA states a 1-9% failure rate among couples correctly using the method with every act of sexual intercourse, suggesting an efficacy rate of 91-99%. Actual rates of efficacy may be closer to 75%.
Review of other non-hormonal birth control methods:
Condoms
When used correctly, male latex condoms are 97% effective at preventing pregnancy and female condoms, made from polyurethane, are 95% effective at preventing pregnancy. Condoms provide the best protect against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs). For individuals with latex sensitivities, polyurethane or natural condoms are available. Natural condoms, made from lamb skin, do not prevent against STDs including HIV.
Intra-Uterine Device (IUD)
The Copper IUD does not contain or release hormones. It is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. A simple procedure by a physician is required for placing the device into the uterus. The IUD may be left in place for up to 10 years. It is often a method recommended but not limited to women who have already had children.
Spermicide alone
Spermicidal gels, creams, foams, films and suppositories containing nonoxynol-9 are 85-94% effective at preventing pregnancy. Depending on the product, spermicides must be inserted between 5 and 90 minutes before intercourse. Sensitive individuals may not tolerate the ingredients in spermicides.
Vaginal barriers with Spermicide
The Diaphragm is 94% effective at preventing pregnancy and the Cervical cap is 74% effective in women who have had children and 91% effective in women with no previous births. Both barrier methods require proper placement over the cervix and must be inserted prior to intercourse and left in place at least six to eight hours after intercourse. These methods should be used with a spermicide to ensure their effectiveness. Women may experience increased bladder or vaginal infections with use. The Cervical cap may cause abnormal PAP smears.
Surgical sterilization
Female sterilization (tubal ligation) and male sterilization (vasectomy) are greater than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. Individuals contemplating this method should consider the ramifications of a non-reversible procedure. This method is utilized by individuals who are done having children or know that they don’t want to become parents.
When choosing which birth control method is right for you, take into consideration your current health, lifestyle and relationship. Talk to your health care provider to further discuss all the risks and benefits of the many different birth control methods available and make an informed decision about which birth control method meets your personal needs.
Sources:
1. www.fda.gov 2. www.plannedparenthood.org 3. www.ccli.org
For more information, call Jessica Edge, ND, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine: (775) 827-6888.
Follow Us