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Birth control is a concern of many couples who do not want to add any more children to their family. Some of the most common forms of birth control contain hormones, but some women either have adverse side effects when using hormonal birth control or prefer not to use it. Luckily, there are several non-hormonal birth control methods available that are very effective when used properly. If you prefer not to use hormonal birth control, consider these other forms of birth control:

Condoms

Condoms are one of the most popular forms of non-hormonal birth control. In order for a condom to be as effective as possible, it is important that the penis is completely covered before sexual intercourse begins. There are many brands and varieties of condoms on the market, so you and your partner should be able to find one that fits properly and is pleasurable for both parties.

Diaphragm

A diaphragm is dome shaped cup that is inserted into the vagina until it is covering the cervix. It is made of silicone, so when it is inserted properly, sperm is blocked from entering the uterus. For a diaphragm to be most effective, you should also use spermicide during sexual intercourse. In order to get a diaphragm, you will need to visit your doctor for a pelvic exam so you can be measured to ensure that you get a diaphragm that fits properly.

Copper IUD

A copper IUD is a form of long-term birth control that does not use hormones. This type of IUD is a T-shaped device that is inserted into your uterus by your gynecologist. The copper in the rods causes inflammation within the uterus, which prevents fertilization and implantation from occurring. Once the copper IUD is inserted, it can effectively prevent pregnancy for up to 12 years.

Natural Family Planning Method

Some couples prefer to not use any devices to prevent pregnancy, and instead pay attention to signs from a woman's body that signal when she is going to ovulate. If you choose this method of preventing pregnancy, you will have to be very meticulous and keep track of details for it to work properly. Natural family planning involves tracking your cycle closely on a calendar, charting your basal body temperature daily (a woman's basal body temperature spikes before ovulation), and paying attention to changes in cervical mucous to determine the days of the month that you are most fertile. You and your partner can either avoid intercourse during your fertile window or use a condom when you're ovulating.

For more information on contraceptives and family planning, contact a professional business, like Abortion Care.