Birth control prevents you from getting pregnant, and can also be used for gynecological problems like painful periods. However, some people find that regular-strength hormonal birth control comes with unwanted side effects.
Low- or no-hormone birth control options still give you the same protection, but cut back or eliminate the hormone dosage to reduce side effects.
At Longoria OBGYN, Dr. Leonardo Longoria prescribes birth control to new and existing patients living in and around El Paso, Texas, as part of our comprehensive women’s health services.
Could you benefit from switching to a hormone-free or low-hormone birth control? Here are just some of your options.
1. Low-dose combination birth control pills
Combination birth control pills contain both synthetic estrogen and synthetic progesterone (progestin). Both hormones prevent ovulation from being triggered each month, and progestin thickens your cervical mucus, making it more difficult for a released egg to be fertilized.
Used correctly, combination birth control pills are 99.7% effective for preventing pregnancy.
Many brands offer low-dose combination birth control pills, which contain 35 micrograms or less of estrogen. Dr. Longoria may prescribe products such as Apri®, Aviane®, Levlen 21®, Levora®, Lo/Ovral®, Ortho-Novum®, Yasmin®, or Yaz®.
2. Ultra-low-dose combination birth control pills
You can go one step further with the ultra-low-dose combination birth control pill Lo Loestrin Fe®. This birth control medication only contains only 10 micrograms of estrogen.
Talk to Dr. Longoria about whether low-dose or ultra-low-dose birth control is right for you.
3. Low-dose progestin-only birth control pills
Some low-hormone birth control pills contain only progestin. Sometimes known as a “mini pill,” this type of birth control is also 99.7% effective with correct use. However, you should make sure to always take your mini pill at the same time each day, or effectiveness decreases.
Mini pills can shorten the overall duration of your period. You might see side effects like spotting or bleeding between periods. These side effects typically improve after a few months of use.
Commonly available brands of low-dose progestin-only birth control include Camila®, Errin®, Heather®, Jolivette®, Micronor®, and Nora-BE®.
4. Nonhormonal IUD
There are several brands of hormonal IUDs, but the ParaGard® IUD doesn’t contain hormones. If you’re concerned about using synthetic hormones at all, even in low doses, this nonhormonal option might be the best choice for you.
Instead of using hormones to prevent pregnancy, the ParaGard IUD relies on the copper material it’s made of to act as a highly effective natural contraceptive.
5. Barrier methods
Some types of birth control serve as a barrier to prevent the sperm and egg from meeting. These no-hormone forms of birth control include male and female condoms, cervical caps, sponges, and diaphragms. These methods are often used along with spermicidals.
To learn more about all the low-hormone, ultra-low-hormone, and nonhormonal contraception options available to you through Longoria OBGYN, get in touch with Dr. Longoria today. Schedule your appointment online, or call now to book.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Is Essure® a Safe Birth Control Option?
Long-term birth control can improve your life in multiple ways. However, some people report pelvic pain, bleeding, and other symptoms after implantation of an Essure® contraceptive device. Read for information about Essure birth control and safety.
What Kind of Care Can I Expect After I Have My Baby?
The hours, days, and weeks after your baby is born are some of the most special and unique months of your life. Read to learn how expert professional medical support is there for you and your newborn after birth.
5 Ways Laser Treatment Can Improve the Look of Your Skin
Do you have complaints about the appearance or texture of your skin? Laser treatment can help with a wide range of skin care and skin aesthetics issues. Read to learn what you need to know about laser treatment for your skin.
Signs of a Ruptured Ovarian Cyst
If you have a ruptured ovarian cyst, you might need prompt medical attention to prevent complications. Do you know the warning signs and when you should see a doctor? Read to learn what you need to know.
Irregular Periods: How an Ultrasound Can Help
Irregular periods can disrupt your life and make fertility-related planning a challenge. Read to learn more about how ultrasound imaging can help a gynecologist understand more about your irregular menstrual cycle.