How much do you know about the various types of birth control? Hormonal and non-hormonal types of birth control both work to prevent pregnancy, but they function in different ways that may make them better suited to some individuals compared to others. From hormonal forms of birth control that affect ovulation, to non-hormonal forms of birth control that directly block sperm from joining with an egg, and the various pros and cons associated with each type, we have got you covered with all the information you need about the different types of birth control. Let’s get started:
1. Hormonal Types of Birth Control
Hormonal types of birth control work to prevent pregnancy by affecting or even preventing ovulation. When your body does not ovulate, an egg is not released, which when combined with changes to the mucus in the cervix, prevents sperm from joining with an egg. Since eggs cannot be fertilized, pregnancy will not occur. IUDs and implants are over 99% effective, while rings, patches, and shots are around 90%. Oral birth control pills can be up to as effective as other methods, but it depends on how you take them. Patients who miss doses frequently will have lower efficacy rates compared to those who follow a rigorous schedule. In essence: the more often you have to do something about your birth control, such as take a pill or change a ring, the less effective it becomes (because we’re human, and no one is perfect!).
2. Non-Hormonal Types of Birth Control
Non-hormonal types of birth control also work to prevent pregnancy, but instead of directly impacting your body’s ability to get pregnant, they instead impose barriers to fertilization. For instance, condoms are one of the most common non-hormonal types of birth control. However, non-hormonal birth control can also consist of devices such as copper IUDs, which change the habitat inside the vagina, making it almost impossible for sperm to survive and/or reach the egg for fertilization.
3. Pros & Cons of Hormonal Birth Control
Both types of birth control have their benefits and drawbacks, but which type is right for you will depend on your individual needs. Hormonal types of birth control have the perks of being highly effective, assisting with other issues such as chronic headaches, lightening your period, and more. On the other hand, some people experience side effects from hormonal birth control, such as nausea or weight gain. Additionally, it can take some time for hormonal types of birth control to become effective when you start using them, as opposed to the immediate impact of non-hormonal forms of birth control.
4. Pros & Cons of Non-Hormonal Birth Control
Non-hormonal forms of birth control also have their pros and cons, making them the right choice for some people, but not others. Some of the benefits associated with non-hormonal birth control are the general lack of side effects, immediate effectiveness, and a wide variety of options. However, some of the drawbacks are that the effectiveness of non-hormonal forms of birth control can vary and are sometimes expensive. Whether non-hormonal forms of birth control are the right choice for you will depend on your individual needs.
As you can see, there are reasons to consider both types of birth control. If you are looking for assistance in choosing the right option for your wellbeing, you can always enlist the help of our dedicated professionals by reaching out to us today. Don’t worry about tackling your health goals alone when you rely on our experts here at Woven for the best answers and health advice!
