

Non-hormonal Birth Control Options

Without the use of any hormones, these options can involve creating a barrier between sperm and egg, changing the chemistry of the reproductive tract, or a combination of both.

Without the use of any hormones, these options can involve creating a barrier between sperm and egg, changing the chemistry of the reproductive tract, or a combination of both.
Male condoms are easy to find at most pharmacies, convenience, and grocery stores. No prescription is needed, and they’re only used during sexual activity.
Condoms come in a variety of sizes, thicknesses, textures, colours and even flavours. Most are made of latex, but non-latex options include polyurethane and polyisoprene options.
82% with typical use, 98% with perfect use
(effectiveness rate for women during first year of use).
Resembling a very large male condom, the female condom is a soft, loose-fitting, seamless sheath with two flexible rings, one at each end.
79% with typical use, 95% with perfect use
(effectiveness rate for women during first year of use).
A small, disposable, polyurethane foam device that is placed in the vagina. It fits over the cervix to provide a physical barrier to help prevent sperm from entering. The sponge also contains a spermicide, which helps to absorb and trap sperm.
Variable depending on use and birth history.
A deep silicone cap that fits against the cervix and prevents sperm and bacteria from entering.
Unknown.
Made of latex or silicone and nylon, the diaphragm is a cap that covers the cervix and prevents sperm from entering. It’s used with a gel that also forms a physical barrier in front of the cervix and inhibits sperm movement.
Unknown.
Spermicides should be used along with another barrier method of contraception, like a condom because they’re not highly effective alone. They contain a chemical called nonoxynol-9, and come in the form of a cream (only for use with diaphragms), gel, foam, film, or suppository.
82% with perfect use, 72% with typical use
(effectiveness rates in the first year).
It’s a small T-shaped device that’s inserted into the uterus by a healthcare professional.
Highly effective .