Non-Hormonal Birth Control?

iVillage Member
Registered: 11-15-2005
Non-Hormonal Birth Control?
4
Thu, 09-14-2006 - 6:47pm


So I went to the doctor today because I have been feeling really achey and having bad migranes and sinus pain. She checked me for EVERYTHING (ears, throat, nose) said I Did not have an infection, maybe just some allergies causing the sinus pain. But my bloodwork and urine test showed I had a urinary track infection and a blatter infection. I also have not had my period. I Am 2 weeks late. But every pregnancy test I take has been negative. I am on the Nuevo Ring and apprently I am having a reaction to it and the hormones. ( I also have a blatter and urinary track infection because of the RING! Grrr . . ) This was our last attept on Hormonal B.C. I have ben on EVERY kind and had issues with each one. So I am finished with it . . . Dh Is not that happy but I tried (against what I thought) every one and it did not work. So the doc suggested Non-Hormonal Methods like the Rythem method, Spermicides, Diaphragm, Female Condoms, or a cervial cap.


I was just looking for some opinions on these options. I am not too familer with any of them. Does anybody have any websites they recommend or info they would like to share. I am leaning towards the Diaphragm but it says you use it with the Spermicides. Bringing up two more questions . . . . Where do you buy Spermicide? I have NEVER seen that over the counter and the doc said it was??? (Is it one of those you have to ask the pharmacist because its behind the counter?)



Photobucket
iVillage Member
Registered: 07-18-2006
Thu, 09-14-2006 - 9:26pm

Hormones are so tough! I hate them. I found one that works for me (for now), but I've had a rough time with them in general. I'm only 21, so my methods of non-hormonal birth control were always condoms and spermicide. Spermicide is indeed over the counter. Usually it's right near the condoms, so if you don't have to ask the pharmacist for the condoms, you shouldn't have to ask them for the spermicide...you may confuse it with personal lubricants (KY makes a lube, and it also makes a spermicide, for example). It comes in all different kinds - gel, foam, film -- the Today Sponge is back out, which has spermicide in it. If you get fitted for a diaphram or a cervical cap, you will want to use the gel.

I'm guessing that condoms would probably be incredibly inconvenient, but the cervical cap or diaphram might be an option. The thing is with spermicide, if you are prone to infection, they may cause them, so be aware...

If you've had children, you could try a copper IUD (Paraguard). A lot of times, you can use it even if you haven't had children -- it just depends on getting a doctor to insert it for you because sometimes they don't want to if you haven't had children. It is supposed to be a completely reversible form of birth control, though, so it may be worth considering since it's reliable and hormone free!

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Fri, 09-15-2006 - 12:51am

Hi booyita2522, welcome!


      Jill

    

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-18-2003
Fri, 09-15-2006 - 4:25pm

Jill,
You used to have a post about your regimen for using barrier methods. Is it still available? If so, where?--ETA: Jill, I found the regimen but I'd like to know the answer to the next question if you know.

How much do these methods decrease in effectiveness for women who have given birth?

Thanks!
Holly




Edited 9/15/2006 4:42 pm ET by rayshinz
Holly
iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Fri, 09-15-2006 - 9:45pm

Hi Holly,


      Jill