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Non-Hormonal Methods

Paragard IUD (Intrauterine Device) 
The Paragard IUD is more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. It is a small plastic device with a string attached, shaped like a T, with a tiny copper wire wrapped around the stem. The Paragard is non-hormonal and causes changes in the uterus, cervix, and fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy. It is inserted through the cervix and into the uterus by a provider. It can last 10 years but can be taken out at any time by a provider. The Paragard does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Sterilization 
Sterilization is 99.9% effective in preventing pregnancy. Tubal ligation is an out-patient procedure to block, close, or cut the fallopian tubes to prevent eggs from traveling through. Surgical and non-surgical options are available. A vasectomy is an outpatient procedure to close or cut the tubes that allow sperm to be released from the body. Sterilization does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

External Condom 
With typical use, the external condom is 85% effective in preventing pregnancy. If used correctly and consistently the external condom is 98% effective. The external condom is a thin latex or polyurethane cover that fits over the erect penis. It works as a barrier trapping semen inside the condom. There are many varieties of condoms available. Condoms are often available for free at health clinics or for low-cost at drug stores. Condoms are non-hormonal, do not require a prescription, and offer protections against sexually transmitted infections. 

Internal Condom 
With typical use, the internal condom is 79% effective in preventing pregnancy. If used correctly and consistently the internal condom is 95% effective. It is a soft, loose polyurethane or nitrile pouch that fits inside the vagina during intercourse. It works as a barrier trapping semen inside the condom. Internal condoms are non-hormonal, available at some drug stores and health clinics, and offer protection against sexually transmitted infections.

Diaphragm 
With typical use, the diaphragm is 86% effective in preventing pregnancy when used as directed with spermicidal gel, foam, or cream. If used consistently and correctly the diaphragm with spermicide is 94% effective. It is a soft, flexible rubber dome that must be filled with spermicide and inserted into the vagina and over the cervix. A diaphragm offers both a chemical (spermicide) and physical (blocks the cervix) barrier. The diaphragm is non-hormonal and requires a visit with a health care provider to get the right size and a prescription. Diaphragms do not offer protection from sexually transmitted infections.

Cervical Cap
With typical use, the cervical cap is 85% effective in preventing pregnancy.  If used correctly and consistently the cervical cap is 91% effective. It is a rubber cup-shaped device that is inserted and covers the cervix. The cervical cap creates a barrier that blocks sperm from entering into the uterus. The cervical cap is non-hormonal and requires a visit with your healthcare provider to get the correct size and a prescription. It does not offer any protection against sexually transmitted infections.

Fertility Awareness 
With typical use, fertility awareness is 80% effective in preventing pregnancy.  If used correctly and consistently, fertility awareness is 98% effective. Fertility awareness monitors the menstrual cycle, learning to recognize the most fertile time of the cycle by tracking the changes in the body throughout the menstrual cycle. During fertile times, people can prevent pregnancy by not having sex or by using a barrier method. Fertility awareness is non-hormonal and does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Withdrawal 
With typical use, withdrawal is 73% effective in preventing pregnancy.  If used correctly and consistently, withdrawal is 96% effective. Withdrawal works by pulling the penis out of the vagina before ejaculation. Withdrawal depends on self-control and awareness and works by keeping semen from entering the vagina. Withdrawal is non-hormonal and reduces (not eliminates) the risk of sexually transmitted infections.

Spermicide 
With typical use, spermicide is 71%-in preventing pregnancy. If used correctly and consistently, spermicide is 82% effective. Spermicides are chemicals used in the vagina that kill sperm and may be available in foam, cream, gel, film, or suppository forms.  Spermicides are non-hormonal and available at drug stores. Spermicides do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

The Sponge 
With typical use, the sponge is 80%-effective in preventing pregnancy. If used correctly and consistenly, the sponge is 91% effective.  It is a small, soft, and round piece of sponge that contains spermicide. The sponge is inserted into the vagina and covers the cervix. It offers both a chemical (spermicide) and physical (blocks the cervix) barrier. The Sponge is non-hormonal and available at drug stores. The sponge does not offer protection against sexually transmitted infections.

Abstinence

If use consistently, abstinence is the only 100% effective form of birth control. If you are planning to use abstinence as your method of birth control it is a good idea to have a backup method around and available.  Abstinence also offers protection against sexually transmitted infection when people abstain from all sexual activity including oral, anal, and vaginal sex.

Let us help you determine the right method for your health and life. Call (207) 947-5337 or Email Us to make your appointment today.