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What are non-hormonal birth control methods?
What are non-hormonal birth control methods?
There are three kinds of non-hormonal birth control methods (1) Barriers (2) IUDs (3) Surgical. Some of these methods are reversible, additionally, some methods also protect people against STI transmission.
How are they different from Hormonal birth control?
How are they different from Hormonal birth control?
Pros
Pros
No hormone-based side effects
Can be used as needed but not a daily requirement
Effective immediately
Some provide STI prevention as well as contraception benefits
Cons
Cons
Effectiveness varies greatly across types
Some types are expensive
May require lifestyle changes
Risks of infections and allergic reactions to materials
Requires consistent pre-planning before sexual activity
Considerations
Considerations
Barrier Methods are effective only with consistent and correct use and should be used in conjunction with other birth control methods such as the pill, shot, IUD etc.
Make sure your condoms aren't expired and that the packaging isn’t damaged — check the date on the wrapper or box and make sure there is still air inside the wrapper
Only use water-based or silicone lube with latex condoms — don’t use anything with oil, because oil can damage latex condoms making them less effective.
Some might have allergic reactions to latex condoms- there are non-latex options available
If you have a latex allergy that prevents you from using traditional condoms we encourage you to seek out the non-latex and nitrile barrier methods available on campus.
If you have questions about how to protect yourself from pregnancy or STI/STD transmission with a latex allergy you can reach out to the Health Educator and/or Student Health Services for more information.
If your barrier method breaks or becomes dislodged during sex, or if you forget or are unable to use it, you may want to consider emergency contraception options.
Lambskin condoms (aka animal skin condoms) while they are available and create another option for people with latex allergies, they do not protect you from STD/STI transmission.
Some might have allergic reactions to spermicide
Birth Control Sponge users may also have a slightly higher risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a super rare but serious disease.
Use the bar at the bottom of the table to see all the information. Please follow the links for more information at Planned Parenthood
Information about Lifestyle Non-Hormonal Methods can be found here
On-campus Support
On-campus Support
Some barrier methods are available for free on-campus at the following locations:
Health Education and Promotion - Carr House 2nd Floor
Student Health Services - 72 Pine Street 2nd Floor
Residence Halls - 72 Pine Street 2nd Floor
RA Offices - Residence Halls
HAWA Office Hours - Homer Hall RA Office
RISD Student Health Services does not provide spermicide, diaphragm, cervical cap, or birth control sponges. However, you don't need a prescription for these methods— you can buy it over-the-counter at most drugstores, pharmacies, and superstores in the condom aisle.
You can still call Student Health Services during open hours to book an appointment for a consultation with a nurse practitioner and see which contraceptive is best fit for you.
Off-campus resources
Off-campus resources
Local pharmacies (for purchase)
Doctor's Office (free or for purchase)
Clinics (free)
Planned Parenthood (free)
Further information
Bedsider: Explore birth control options
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