There are many different types of contraception available. They come in two main categories: those with hormones and those without hormones. Both options come with advantages and disadvantages. The main benefit of the natural options is that they do not cause the same risk of side effects as the hormonal counterparts. But a disadvantage is that they do not provide equal protection.
What’s on this page?
Why should I choose contraceptives without hormones?
There may be many reasons why women do not want to use contraceptives containing hormones. Some of these reasons are:
- If hormones aren’t suitable for you, for example, if you have a high risk of blood clots
- If you want a natural form of contraception
- If you forget to take the pill correctly and therefore do not achieve high security
- If you need protection sometimes and therefore want a different form of contraception
What kind of contraception without hormones is there?
Fortunately, there are many ways to protect against unwanted pregnancies without using without hormone-based protection.
Contraceptive coils and IUDs
An IUD is a small t-shaped bar that is inserted into the uterus. It works in such a way that the sperm cannot get through and fertilize an egg in the uterus. There are two different types of IUDs available. One which contains hormones, while the other is a copper coil. The copper coil is completely free from hormones and therefore a natural contraceptive. Both options require a doctor or gynaecologist to insert it.
The benefits are that the copper coil provides high protection for unwanted pregnancies without the use of hormones. It also works for a long period of time and is not something you need to think about in your everyday life.
The disadvantages are unfortunately that many women are getting stronger and more painful periods. In addition, the risk of peritonitis increases. There is also a small chance that the coil drops out and then you must visit a doctor or gynaecologist to insert it in the right place again. The coil also does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, so if you are sexually active with different partners, it is important that you protect yourself differently.
Condoms
One of the most classic forms of protection and contraception without hormones is the condom, used all over the world. It is made of rubber and placed on the penis. It has a great advantage as it is the only form of protection that can protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Moreover, it collects sperm making it also effective protection against pregnancies of over 94% if used properly. In addition, they can be purchased almost anywhere and are therefore widely available.
The downside is that it can lower the person’s sensitivity to the penis and may, therefore, give less pleasure. It is also easily damaged and sperm can go out from the edges, which may cause unwanted pregnancies if no other form of protection is used.
Diaphragm
Another form of contraceptive without hormones is a diaphragm, a small semicircular membrane of silicone or rubber that is inserted into the vagina before intercourse. It closes it so that sperm cannot enter the uterus and fertilize an egg. It must be lubricated before use. It’s a relatively safe method, like the condom, it gives 94% safe protection against pregnancy. It can be set up 2 hours before intercourse and does not affect it. The disadvantages of it are that it does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases as the condom does, and some find it difficult to place in the vagina.
Female condom
The female condom is called as it is because it works in many ways just like a regular condom. The difference is that it is placed in the vagina instead of the penis. It consists of a tube of soft material with a ring at each end. The other end is open and the other is closed. It is located in the vagina so that the penis can be inserted into it during intercourse. Thus, it will act as a form of an inner condom.
The protection is almost as safe as a condom and provides both protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, which is a big advantage. The disadvantage is that it can be a little difficult to place and that it may be a little disturbing during the intercourse.
