There are several non-oral methods of birth control. Some of these include natural family planning, male condoms, the Depo-Provera injection, intrauterine devices and surgical sterilization. There are positive and negative aspects of each type of birth control. A doctor can assist in choosing the best of form of contraception based on the person's needs.
Natural Family Planning
The natural family planning method means not having intercourse on the most fertile days of a woman's cycle. The key to this method is observing signs of fertility. During fertile days, the mucus from the cervix will be clear and slippery. The woman's temperature will also change. The benefits of this method include low cost and no side effects. According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, natural family planning is 99 percent effective when used correctly.
Male Condoms
The male condom is a barrier method that blocks fertilization of the egg. Male condoms come in lubricated or non-lubricated varieties, and are made of latex, polyurethane or natural/lambskin. Non-lubricated condoms may be used during oral sex and can be lubricated with a water-based lubricant. A new condom must be used each time a person has intercourse. They are available without a prescription. Latex and polyurethane condoms protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
Depo-Provera Injection
The Depo-Provera shot is a progestin injection taken every three months, and is administered in the doctor's office. It stops the release of eggs from the ovaries. The shot also changes the mucus of the cervix to prevent fertilization of the egg. The National Women's Health Information Center suggests that the shot not be used for more than two years in a row due to temporary bone loss it causes. Women may also experience spotting, headaches and an increase in weight.
Intrauterine Device
An intrauterine device, or IUD, is a plastic or copper T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus by the doctor. A plastic IUD contains progestin that prevents the release of eggs and prevents the fertilization of eggs for up to five years. The copper IUD prevents fertilization of the egg, and stays for five to 10 years. Both types prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. Side effects are cramps, spotting and infertility.
Surgical Sterilization
Surgical sterilization is a permanent birth control option for men or women. In women, the fallopian tubes are tied or blocked so that eggs cannot reach the uterus. In men a vasectomy eliminates the fertility of the ejaculate. According to the National Women's Health Information Center, ejacluate may be fertile for three months following a vasectomy. Side effects of surgical sterilization include pain, bleeding and surgical complications. Sterilization may be reversed through surgery.
