Is Birth Control Without Hormones Safer?
There are several types of birth control that one might feel a little overwhelmed with when deciding which one is right for them.
Some methods of birth control use hormones to prevent pregnancy. These hormone-based birth control methods are very effective in preventing pregnancy. However, if you are wondering whether birth control without hormones might offer a safer alternative, then you are at the right place.
Before proceeding with the right birth control for you, whether it is hormone-based or hormone-free, you need expert advice from medical providers who understand an individual’s personal health profile, sexual life and family planning goals.
Hormonal or Non-Hormonal Birth Control
Hormonal birth control methods prevent pregnancy through the use of hormones like estrogen and progesterone. This includes birth control pills, implants, patches and vaginal rings. Some IUDs also contain hormones.
Non-hormonal birth control techniques help avoid pregnancy by preventing sperm and egg from meeting or by preventing conception from occurring. This includes male and female condoms, one type of IUD, diaphragms, cervical caps and contraceptive products like sponges. Surgical methods also count as non-hormonal forms of birth control.
Benefits of Non-Hormonal Birth Control
If you are having doubts regarding non-hormonal birth control, then here we have some benefits of non-hormonal birth control, take a look:
- There will be no hormonal side effects. Avoids issues like headaches, weight changes, mood shifts, or skin changes associated with hormonal methods.
- Condoms provide dual protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
- Safe for individuals who can’t use hormones due to health issues like certain cancers or breastfeeding.
- Natural fertility returns immediately after stopping use or removing devices like the Copper IUD.
- Copper IUD lasts for years, is highly effective, and can serve as emergency contraception.
If you still can’t make the decision about the methods, then we have shown a clear difference i between both, take a look ahead. To have a clear conversation, visit “Medical Centre Chermside”.
Hormonal vs. Non-Hormonal Birth Control
| Method | Risks | Benefits | Who is Ideal? |
| Hormonal | Increased risk of blood clots, heart attack, stroke, especially with estrogen.It can worsen migraines, may affect blood sugar, no STI protection.Headaches, nausea, mood swings, breast tenderness, irregular bleeding/spotting, and weight changes. | Lightens periods, reduces cramps (dysmenorrhea), and can treat heavy bleeding.It can improve acne and hirsutism.Long-acting options like implants and hormonal IUDs offer years of protection.May lower risk for ovarian and endometrial cancers. | Those with a history of blood clots, severe migraines with aura, uncontrolled high blood pressure, breast cancer, or certain liver issues should avoid estrogen-containing methods, while progestin-only options suit those who can’t take estrogen, like breastfeeding individuals, and a professional’s personalised consultation is crucial. |
| Non-Hormonal | Latex allergies, irritation, improper use leading to failure, and no STI protection.Heavier, longer, or more painful periods, cramping; rare expulsion of the device.None cause hormonal side effects like weight gain or mood changes. | Avoids mood swings, headaches, weight changes, or other hormone-related issues.Condoms are highly effective at preventing STIs, a unique benefit.Fertility is unaffected and returns immediately after stopping. | Non-hormonal birth control is ideal for people who can’t use hormones due to medical conditions, like blood clots, breast cancer, or who experience negative hormonal side effects, mood swings, weight gain, migraines, prefer to avoid impacting their natural cycle, need emergency contraception, copper IUD, or want options for infrequent use. |
FAQs: Hormonal Vs. Non-Hormonal Methods of Birth Control
Q1. What are the different hormonal birth control methods?
Implant, injection or shot, combines oral contraceptives, patch and hormonal vaginal contraceptive ring are some of the popular hormonal birth control methods.
Q2. What is the “patch” hormonal birth control method?
It is a skin patch worn on the lower abdomen, buttocks or upper body. This method is prescribed by specialists and should not be taken on your own. It releases hormones, progestin and estrogen into the bloodstream. A new one is worn once a week for three weeks. During the fourth week, you do not wear it so you can have a menstrual period.
Q3. What are permanent birth control methods?
Tubal ligation or tying tubes, and vasectomy are two popular permanent solutions for birth control. You need to get the consultation procedure done so that your expert can recommend the best-suited one for you.
Final Thoughts
At CSMC, you can get the consultation done by the expert team of medical professionals. They can recommend the ideal procedure according to your needs and medical requirements. So, visit the CSMC specialists today!