Nowadays we live in a world where almost everyone has access to different contraceptive methods. Even though alternative contraceptive measures are being used since the dawn of history, the health care system is constantly working on developing more efficient measures and with less adverse reactions.
Up until now, we focused on non-hormonal and hormonal contraceptive methods. Today we will talk about other contraceptive methodsâ€ïž.
Next to hormonal and non-hormonal contraceptives, there are also plenty of other methods that prevent pregnancy.
Breastfeeding method
Breastfeeding method, or lactational amenorrhea method (LAM), can act as a contraceptive if a woman is exclusively breastfeeding during the first 6 months after giving birth. When breastfeeding, the ovulation process stops and therefore, preventing pregnancy. If used correctly (exclusively breastfeeding) this method is 99% effective. It can be used with condoms.
The Breastfeeding method does not protect you from STDs!
Breastfeeding Method
Fertility Awareness Method (FAM)
Fertility awareness is a contraceptive method whereby a woman can keep track of her menstrual cycle and her ovulation period. Women use this method in order to avoid having vaginal sex during their fertile days (ovulation period). There are multiple ways to use this method: taking the temperature daily (the temperature method), checking the vaginal discharge daily (the cervical mucus method) or keeping track of the menstrual cycle on a calendar (the calendar method). If used correctly, this method has an 88% effectiveness. It can be used with condoms.
The Fertility Awareness Method does not protect you from STDs!
As an alternative and helpful way, this method can be improved by using a fertility monitor, a device that tracks the fertility period.
Fertility Awareness Method (FAM)
Withdrawal Method
The withdrawal method, or âpull outâ method,refers to pulling the penis out of the vagina before ejaculating. This method is only 78% effective, therefore it is recommended to use it with another contraceptive method (condom, vaginal ring, the pill).
The Withdrawal Method does not protect you from STDs!
Withdrawal Method
Outer-Course (Non-Penetrative Sex)
Outer-course refers to sexual activities that do not include the insertion of a penis into a vagina.
The Outer-course method does not protect you from STDs! You can still use condoms when performing oral or anal sex.
Examples of Outer-Course (Non-Penetrative Sex)
Abstinence
Abstinence refers to the refrain of any kind of sexual activity.
This Abstinence method protects you from pregnancy and from STDs!
If you plan to use a contraceptive, discuss this topic with your doctor in order to find the suitable method for your body and to be aware of the possible side effects.