If you are looking for a family planning method to prevent unwanted pregnancy, you can choose between hormonal and non-hormonal birth control methods. However, hormonal birth control may not be a choice for some people who do not want to cope with the side effects, have health concerns, or are breastfeeding their baby.
If you are looking for the best non-hormonal family planning, obstetrics McAllen, TX, offers family planning services that fit your needs.
Here are some non-hormonal birth control methods available for you;
1. Condoms
Condoms are the most widely used hormonal-free birth control technique in the world. In addition to helping you avoid an undesired pregnancy, they also protect you from sexually transmitted illnesses and infections (STDs and STIs).
Condoms are efficient, simple to use, inexpensive, and widely accessible. When used appropriately, they are roughly 82 percent effective. However, condoms have the drawbacks of breaking; therefore, you need to be careful when using them.
2. Sponge
A contraceptive sponge is a piece of plastic that is put into the vaginal canal before sexual activity. It acts as a shield between the sperm and the uterine cervix. Sponges are single-use devices that should be used in conjunction with spermicide. These can be inserted not longer than 24 hours before intercourse in the vaginal canal. The most important rule to remember while using a sponge is that you should remove it at least 6 hours following sexual activity.
3. Cervical cap
A cervical cap is a non-hormonal birth control procedure that involves inserting a silicon plug into the vaginal canal before sexual activity. Because it is reusable, it is necessary to inspect it for cracks or holes before using it.
4. Diaphragm
A diaphragm is a bigger version of the cervical cup that is inserted in the vagina before sexual activity to prevent pregnancy. It is also reusable; therefore, you must thoroughly inspect it for any weak spots or cracks before use. You can let it stay in the vaginal canal for up to 24 hours, but you should remove it 6 hours after intercourse.
5. Spermicide
Spermicide is a chemical that destroys sperms. It is available in a gel, foam, or cream. Spermicide has a 70-80% efficacy when used alone; hence you should use it in conjunction with condoms or other barrier techniques.
Spermicide usually has no adverse effects; however, it might cause skin irritation in some individuals. Most spermicides contain nonoxynol-9, which can alter the skin around your genitals, increasing your risk of contracting HIV. If you have skin irritation, itching, redness, or a burning feeling, or are concerned about HIV, visit your doctor immediately.
6. Copper Intrauterine devices (IUD)
If you are searching for long-term birth control, Intrauterine devices (IUD) are a good alternative. These are reversible contraceptive methods available in both hormonal and hormone-free versions. It is implanted into a woman’s uterus by a specialist doctor. IUDs can last up to ten years. However, a doctor may take out the intrauterine device at any moment to restore your fertility. IUDs have a failure rate of less than 1%. Common birth control side effects linked with IUDs include Cramps and heavy bleeding, but they may fade over time.
Now that you know your non-hormonal family planning options, you can decide which method is best for you. Contact the Women’s Clinic of the Rio Grande Valley to book an appointment for family planning services or to learn more about family planning methods.
