Birth Control Options

Birth control pills can cause a variety of problems.

Today, there are many safer birth control options available.

The male and female condom not only prevents pregnancy if used correctly, but also prevents the transmission of HIV. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, are highly effective in preventing transmission of HIV and the correct and consistent use of latex condoms can reduce the risk of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).” When used correctly, latex condoms are 98% effective in preventing pregnancy from occurring. If cost is an issue, you can check your local Planned Parenthood for male and female condoms at lower costs.

Another option for birth control is the FemCap and the diaphragm. The FemCap is a non-latex, non-allergenic silicone rubber cap that is placed over the cervix to prevent sperm from going into the uterus. The dDiaphragm is a natural rubber cup with a flexible rim. Both the FemCap and the Diaphragm must be used in conjunction with a spermicide. When used perfectly, the FemCap is estimated to be up to 98% effective in preventing pregnancy. The diaphragm is estimated to be 80-94% effective when used consistently and correctly. Neither the FemCap nor the Diaphragm prevent the transmission of HIV or other STIs. They should be used along with a condom when having sex with multiple partners or a partner who has not been recently tested.

Fertility awareness is another option to avoid pregnancy if you are in a monogamous relationship and if you have regular menstrual cycles. Fertility awareness involves charting your menstrual cycles, your basal body temperature and monitoring your cervical mucus. This information is used as a guide to predict fertile and unfertile days of the month. For more information, please visit gardenoffertility.com and the book Taking Charge of Your Fertility: The Definitive Guide to Natural Birth Control and Pregnancy Achievement by Toni Weschler.

At Aletris Center of Integrative Medicine, we provide patients with comprehensive information regarding natural forms of birth control and fertility awareness practices.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

The Truth about Birth Control Pills

Worldwide, the birth control pill has given millions of women control over their reproduction. As technology continues to progress, oral contraception also has become much safer to use then it once was. Currently, there are pills on the market that have smaller and smaller amounts of hormone in them, whereas earlier birth control pills were implicated in much higher rates of blood clots and strokes.

However, there are still many risks associated with oral contraceptives (OCs). For example, OC’s deplete many of our essential vitamins, including folic acid, B12, B6, B2, vitamin C and zinc. Deficiency of these vitamins can lead to cervical dysplasia, depression, and birth defects. Additionally, OC’s increase the risk of heart disease, breast cancer, and bone fractures. Women on OC’s are especially at risk for developing a blood clot during a long plane ride, and during surgery. Sedentary women, women over 40, and smokers also have increased risk.

Birth control pills also elevate a blood protein called sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). This protein can bind to testosterone and thyroid hormone in the blood leading to deficiency symptoms. Testosterone deficiency commonly manifests as a low libido in women, and low thyroid levels can present as an intolerance to cold, constipation, or fatigue.

Also note worthy is that OC’s can increase vaginal glycogen, a storage form of sugar, and predispose women to vaginal yeast infections.

At ALETRIS, we believe in discussing the risks of birth control pills in depth with each patient. Other options may be more desirable than hormonal contraception, given their side effects. Please consult with your doctor regarding the safest birth control methods for you.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.