What are the different hormonal and non-hormonal methods of contraception, and how do they work to control fertility?

Sourav PanNovember 13, 2024

Answered

Contraceptive methods can be categorized into hormonal and non-hormonal types, each functioning through different mechanisms to control fertility. Here’s a detailed overview of these methods:

Hormonal Methods

Hormonal contraceptives work primarily by altering the hormonal balance in the body to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining. They include:

1. Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs):
   • Description: Pills containing both estrogen and progestin.
   • Mechanism: Suppress ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the endometrial lining to prevent implantation.
2. Progestin-Only Pills (Mini-Pills):
   • Description: Pills containing only progestin.
   • Mechanism: Primarily thickens cervical mucus and may prevent ovulation.
3. Hormonal Intrauterine Devices (IUDs):
   • Description: T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus that release progestin.
   • Mechanism: Thicken cervical mucus and thin the uterine lining; some may also inhibit ovulation.
4. Implants:
   • Description: Small rods placed under the skin of the arm that release progestin.
   • Mechanism: Prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus.
5. Injectables:
   • Description: Progestin injections (e.g., Depo-Provera) administered every three months.
   • Mechanism: Prevents ovulation and alters cervical mucus.
6. Patch:
   • Description: A transdermal patch that releases estrogen and progestin.
   • Mechanism: Similar to COCs, it prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus.
7. Vaginal Ring:
   • Description: A flexible ring placed in the vagina that releases hormones.
   • Mechanism: Delivers hormones similar to COCs to prevent ovulation.

Non-Hormonal Methods

Non-hormonal contraceptive methods do not involve hormones and typically work by creating a physical barrier or using natural methods to prevent pregnancy:

1. Barrier Methods:
   • Condoms (male and female): Prevent sperm from entering the uterus; also protect against STIs.
   • Diaphragm/Cervical Cap: Inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix; used with spermicide to block sperm.
2. Copper IUD:
   • Description: A non-hormonal device inserted into the uterus.
   • Mechanism: The copper acts as a spermicide, preventing sperm from fertilizing an egg.
3. Natural Family Planning (NFP):
   • Involves tracking menstrual cycles to identify fertile days and abstaining from intercourse during those times. This method requires careful monitoring but has a higher failure rate compared to other methods.
4. Withdrawal Method (Coitus Interruptus):
   • Involves withdrawing before ejaculation; however, it is less effective due to pre-ejaculatory fluid potentially containing sperm.
5. Abstinence:
   • The only method that guarantees 100% effectiveness against pregnancy and STIs by avoiding all sexual activity.
6. Spermicides:
   • Chemical substances that kill sperm, often used in conjunction with barrier methods for increased effectiveness