Alternative medications are used to help patients manage conditions that cannot be addressed with traditional medicines, and can include liquid medications poured under the tongue to dissolve faster than tablets that need to be swallowed.
Birth control alternatives other than pills include IUDs and implants, as well as progestin-only contraceptives which may ease cramps and make periods lighter.
Birth Control Pills
The pill works to prevent conception (sperm fertilizing an egg) by thickening cervical mucus and changing uterine lining lining to stop or reduce ovulation. Certain brands also reduce menstrual bleeding by gradually administering low doses of estrogen over time which may help relieve symptoms associated with perimenopause, such as hot flashes or irregular periods.
Combo pills come in either conventional packs with 21 active pills and seven inactive ones or multiphasic packs where hormones vary throughout a month’s timeframe. There are also continuous-use or extended-cycle pills available, which eliminate the need for monthly periods altogether.
When used consistently and correctly, birth control pills are approximately 99% effective, however their efficacy may decrease due to medical conditions that cause side effects like blood clots or liver problems; or taking medications or supplements which interfere with how well the pill works. Unfortunately, they also don’t protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Minipills
Minipills do not contain estrogen, making them an excellent option for women with histories of blood clots, breast cancer or liver disease as well as those who have undergone bariatric surgery. Each pack of 28 active pills should be started within the first five days of menstruation cycle to maximize effectiveness.
They work by suppressing ovulation and altering the uterine and cervical mucus lining to make it impossible for sperm to penetrate and fertilise an egg. Unfortunately, they don’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so when engaging in sexual activity it is recommended that you use a condom as protection.
To maximize effectiveness, take your contraception at approximately the same time every day. If you miss one for more than three hours, take it as soon as you remember–even if that means taking two pills simultaneously–and use backup contraception for two more days.
IUDs
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a long-acting and reversible contraceptive that protects you against pregnancy for up to 12 years, unlike pills, patches, rings and injectables which don’t offer such protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Copper and hormonal IUDs exist; Paragard is one such copper IUD sold under this heading. Copper IUDs release copper ions into the uterus, which make it hard for sperm to reach and fertilize an egg. Meanwhile, Mirena, Liletta, and Kyleena hormonal IUDs release progestogen which thicken cervical mucus and thin out the uterine lining, making it harder for eggs to attach themselves.
After receiving a hormonal IUD, you may experience cramps or irregular bleeding. Furthermore, there is also the potential risk that the device perforates your uterus, leading to pelvic pain or abnormalities in bleeding patterns.
Other Hormonal Contraceptives
Birth control options vary, and what’s important to you may alter throughout life. IUDs and implants (known as long-acting reversible contraception) are among the most reliable nonhormonal alternatives not related to the pill; both contain no hormones and are suitable after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Combination hormonal contraceptives like the pill are up to 99% effective if taken properly but raise your risk of blood clots; progestin-only birth control pills may provide relief from symptoms like cramps and acne.
Barrier methods like diaphragms and cervical caps can also be highly effective if they’re used regularly before engaging in sexual activity, making these products available from Planned Parenthood or free clinics that participate in the federal 340B program.
