Non-hormonal methods of contraception

Abstract

From a global perspective, non-hormonal methods of contraception are used on an impressive scale. The two most common methods of contraception worldwide, namely sterilization and the intrauterine device, are used by over 200 and 100 million couples respectively. Both methods offer highly effective methods of fertility control, and other than undergoing the initial procedure, require minimal ongoing effort from the user. Of course both methods are associated with some risk of complications, but this can be minimized by appropriate counselling and client selection. The male condom has seen a resurgence in popularity over the past years, and is now used by many couples for protection against sexually transmitted infection, including HIV. It continues to offer reasonable protection against pregnancy, although is often combined with use of another method, when prevention of pregnancy is paramount. Although female barrier methods, such as the vaginal diaphragm, cervical cap and spermicides are used by small numbers of women, they represent an important choice for those wishing a female controlled method, with minimal health implications and side effects. Some women continue to opt for natural family planning, using a variety of methods to identify the fertile time of the menstrual cycle. These methods offer moderate pregnancy protection in well motivated couples, and may be acceptable when other methods are rejected on moral grounds.