Some people are uncomfortable with the hormonal forms of contraception, mainly because they do not like the idea of a hormone being produced in them. They love to keep things simple with contraception. They don’t want to alter the program of their body but they also don’t want an unplanned pregnancy, and that’s where non-hormonal methods come in.
Non-hormonal contraceptives do not need to produce/introduce any hormones in your body before you are protected. They include Barrier methods (Condoms, diaphragms and cervical cups), the copper intra-uterine device, spermicide, withdrawal method and natural family planning.
CONDOM:
Everybody has heard about them one point in their lives. They are probably the most talked about form of contraception, and I believe this is because it is the only form that will also protect you from the risk of STIs.
There are two types of condom, the male and the female/internal condom.
Male condoms are 87% effective while Female condoms are 79% effective.
A male condom is worn when the penis is erect but a female condom can be worn for up to 2 hours before sex. The condom serves as a barrier blocking the entrance of sperm cells into the vagina/cervix. After sex, it is expected to be discarded properly.
UPSIDES
1. It is affordable
2. Easily accessible
3. Prevention from STIs
DOWNSIDES
1. It has to be used every time, perfectly for it to work
2. Decreases sensation during sex
3. Allergy
COPPER IUD
It is a T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus. It is mostly mistaken with the IUS but has its distinct characteristics.
Unlike the IUS, the Intrauterine Device does not contain hormones.
The rate of efficiency is about 99%. A copper IUD is a pretty long term form of contraception, being able to last up to 10-12years.
UPSIDES:
1. It is a long term Contraceptive.
2. It is pretty discrete.
3. The IUD can also be used for emergency.
DOWNSIDES:
1. It might cause heavy and uncomfortable periods alongside cramps.
2. Need to visit a doctor to get it inserted.
SPERMICIDE:
This is a gel which is inserted into the vagina with an applicator or even your hands. It’s duty is to kill sperm, and this is achieved by changing the vagina’s ph.
It is about 79% effective.
UPSIDES:
1. It is affordable.
2. Doesn’t disrupt sex.
3. It is easily accessible.
DOWNSIDES:
1. Risk of vaginal irritation/infection
DIAPHRAGM
It is a little cap which is placed in the vagina. Just like the condom, it serves as a road block, preventing sperm from entry into the cervix that’s why it is mostly mistaken for the female condom.
It is about 83% effective and does require a visit to the doctor to get fitted. If you have given birth or have had your weight go up/down 15pounds since your last fitting, you would have to go back for another fitting.
Diaphragms have to be used with spermicide for it to be effective.
The Diaphragm can be inserted 24 hours before sex and need to be left for up to 6hours after sex, along with the spermicide for it to work.
UPSIDES:
1. Can be inserted some hours before sex and so is a great Contraceptive if you’re trying to be discrete about it
DOWNSIDES:
1. Need to visit the clinic to get fitted.
2. Has to be used properly, every time during sex for it to work.
CERVICAL CAP:
It is a cap that goes on the cervix. It has an efficiency rate of 71-86%. Unlike the Diaphragm, the cervical cap goes onto the cervix which can be a little harder to achieve. It must also be used with a spermicide.
UPSIDES:
1. Unlike the diaphragm, it continues to provide contraceptive until it has been taken out. IT SHOULDN’T BE LEFT OR UP TO 48 HOURS ELSE YOU RUNNA RISK OF HAVING TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME.
DOWNSIDES:
1. More difficult to insert than diaphragm.
2. They are hard to use effectively
THE SPONGE:
Just like the name, it is simply a sponge that is inserted into the vagina. It acts as a physical road block while also releasing spermicides. It can be put in 24 hours before sex.
It’s efficiency rate is 73-86%.
UPSIDES:
1. It is discrete.
DOWNSIDES:
1. Has to be used every time you have sex.
2. The possibility of making a mistake is available
WITHDRAWAL METHOD:
It is 80% effective. This is when the man pulls out before ejaculation so as to prevent the sperm cells from entry.
This is not the preferred method for most people because it entails trusting your partner to do it right every single time, but it’s better than nothing in preventing pregnancy.
UPSIDES:
1. Pretty discrete
2. It is completely free
3. There are no side effects
DOWNSIDES:
1. Risk of mistakes
NATURAL FAMILY PLANING METHOD.
It is about 77-98% effective. This wide range is mostly dependent on how good/poorly it is used.
This is simply the use of your cycle to know when to and when not to have sex. To use this form of contraception, you need to have a regular cycle, be dedicated and ready to say no to sex when in fertile window period.
It involves tracking of your cycle with the aid of your basal body temperature, cervical mucus and sometimes, cervical positioning.
There are a whole lot of apps that help too.
UPSIDES:
1. Discrete
2. Requires little to no cost
DOWNSIDES:
1. A little bit tasking
There are a wide range of contraception to choose from—both hormonal and non hormonal. All that needs to be done is finding the right fit for you and your partner and abiding by the rules of that method to eliminate mistakes from happening.
