Are Non-Hormonal Birth Control Options Safe? We Explore Your Options

When exploring contraception options, some of our patients are concerned about the potential side effects of hormonal birth control and want to know more about other available choices. We respect our patients and their right to choose, and we want you to know that we are always by your side on this journey, regardless of whether or not you choose to start a family. 

Another concern patients raise with us is the safety of non-hormonal birth control options. Therefore, we’re going to take an in-depth look at this topic, evaluating the many contraceptive choices available, and briefly discuss how non-hormonal birth control options work and how effective it is. 

As gynecologists in Chapel Hill and Durham, we have helped thousands of women throughout the decades, securing our place as the practice of choice for the area. We’ve achieved this by recognizing each patient as an individual and addressing their specific needs to tailor a health care plan that works for them. We would love to be your medical home. Please contact us to schedule an appointment.

Non-Hormonal Birth Control Options: Safety and Effectiveness

Unlike conception, which relies on hormones, non-hormonal birth control primarily focuses on physical barriers to stop sperm from reaching the egg. Others may include time-based methods and the use of spermicides. 

 A few of the more popular non-hormonal birth control options, and their potential risks, include:

The Copper IUD

While some IUDs use hormones, this IUD releases copper, which is toxic to sperm.  It is a safe, reliable method that is over 99% effective. Many women prefer the IUD not only because it is reliable, but it is a long-term form of birth control that doesn’t hinge on remembering to take a pill every day.

However, if you have copper allergies or certain uterine abnormalities, this would not be an appropriate option for you. 

If you’re interested in a copper IUD, please speak with us. An IUD must be inserted and removed by a physician. 

Male and Female Condoms

The key to successful contraception using male and female condoms is that they have to be used correctly to achieve the maximum benefits.  The male condom is around 87% effective when used the way it is typically used. By comparison, the female condom is 79% effective.

One advantage of using condoms is that they can prevent sexually transmitted infections. These methods are generally safe unless one of the partners has a latex allergy

Diaphragm 

This birth control method should always be used with a spermicide. If used correctly, it is 83% effective. It needs to be used each time after intercourse. If you have a baby, your diaphragm will need to be refitted.

A diaphragm is a safe method of birth control, although there are some potential side effects such as:

• UTIs
• Vaginal infections
• Irritation
• Allergic reactions

In very rare instances, toxic shock could occur if it’s left in for more than 24 hours.

Spermicides

Spermicides are another option, although they are more effective when used with another form of birth control. Used alone, they are 79% effective. 

Possible side effects include irritation or allergic reactions. It’s also important to remember that a spermicide does not protect you from sexually transmitted infections. 

Fertility Awareness

This technique involves carefully following your ovulation schedule to determine when you have released an egg, and then abstaining from sex (or using barrier birth control methods) while you are fertile. 

Fertility awareness involves extensive planning and training to ensure it is being used correctly. When used correctly, it is 77% effective. 

If you select this non-hormonal birth control option, we encourage you to be informed. If you have irregular periods, this may not be the most effective technique for you. 

Withdrawal (“Pull out” method)

While this technique is 80 percent effective, it hinges upon your sexual partner being able to withdraw every time before ejaculation. 

Sterilizaton 

A tubal ligation (getting your “tubes tied”) is a technique that is 99.5% effective. We explore more about sterilization in our earlier article: “Best Options for Permanent Birth Control”

How Effective Are Non-Hormonal Birth Control Methods?

As you’ve seen earlier in our article, there is a large range of effectiveness when it comes to non-hormonal birth control. It can be as high as 99% for the copper IUD to 77% for the fertility awareness method.

We encourage you to speak with us to help determine which option would be the best for you. 

What Are the Advantages of Non-Hormonal Birth Control?

Some of the advantages include:

• Fewer side effects
• Appropriate for those who cannot take hormonal birth control
• Can reduce or eliminate the menstrual period
  • Less cramping and bleeding
• Some options, such as the IUD, offer long-term protection
• Other options, like condoms, can effectively protect against STIs

Every woman is different. We will work closely with you to review the various techniques, their effectiveness, advantages and precautions. 

We Can Help You Select The Birth Control Option That’s Right For You

Are you always on the go and don’t want to think about birth control?

Perhaps you want to maximize your protection against STIs.

These are both facets you should take into consideration when deciding which non-hormonal birth control option is right for you. Don’t worry. We’re with you through every step in your journey. 

Experience firsthand the care that has enabled us to be consistently named the best OBGYN practice in Orange and Durham counties. Schedule an appointment today.