Over the last several decades, hormonal birth control has given women control over their fertility and reproduction. While hormonal birth control options, such as pills, shots, patches, and vaginal rings can be very effective when used properly, some women are unable to use hormonal birth control, or prefer not to, for a variety of reasons. Luckily, there are options for women who can't use hormonal birth control. If you can't take hormonal birth control, consider using these options:
Copper IUD
Many women are aware of intrauterine devices (IUDs) as a form of birth control, but a lot of people do not know that there are two types of IUDs-- one that uses hormones to prevent pregnancy and one made of copper that is hormone-free. If you're interested in a highly-effective form of long-term birth control but are unable or don't want to use hormonal birth control options, a copper IUD is an excellent option.
Copper ions are a natural spermicide-- when you have a copper IUD placed by your gynecologist, you can rest assured that the copper wrapped around your IUD will kill sperm before it has the chance to fertilize an egg and cause a pregnancy. Copper IUDs are very popular since they are effective for several years before they have to be removed and replaced. A copper IUD will also not have an adverse effect on fertility, and most women do not have issues with getting pregnant after their copper IUD is removed.
Condoms
Condoms are one of the most used barrier methods used to prevent pregnancy, as well as prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. Some of the benefits of condoms are the fact that they are inexpensive and easy to use. When used properly, condoms are quite effective at preventing pregnancy. If you and your partner choose to use condoms as a form of birth control, always make sure that the condom is on before any intercourse occurs.
Diaphragm
A diaphragm is a silicone cup that is placed over the cervix prior to sex and used with spermicide to prevent pregnancy. A gynecologist is able to fit and prescribe a diaphragm to a patient interested in this type of birth control. When using a diaphragm, it is very important to understand the directions and how to insert it. A diaphragm must be left in place for several hours after sexual intercourse in order to prevent pregnancy, but it needs to be removed within a couple of days to prevent infections.
Speak with a business like Healthcare for Women Only for more information.
