Choosing whether or not to use birth control is a deeply personal decision. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, and what works well for one woman may not work well for another. The most important thing is that you are fully informed about how each method works, the potential side effects, and how each birth control option may impact your health both short and long term.
At Fort Worth Midwifery, we strongly encourage informed consent and thoughtful decision-making when it comes to hormonal contraceptives and family planning.
Understanding Hormonal Contraceptives
Hormonal contraceptives (HCs) work by suppressing the body’s natural hormone production, including estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. These methods primarily work by preventing ovulation, altering cervical mucus, and/or interfering with implantation.
Common hormonal contraceptives include:
- Combination pills (estrogen-progestogen)
- Progestogen-only pills
- Hormonal IUDs
- Injections
- Patches
- Vaginal rings
Each option comes with its own risks and potential side effects. Some women tolerate hormonal contraceptives well, while others experience significant physical or emotional changes.
Possible side effects and concerns may include:
- Anxiety or depression
- Lower libido
- Nutrient depletion
- Gut health changes
- Delayed return to fertility
- Cycle irregularities
- Breastfeeding compatibility concerns
Not all hormonal contraceptives are considered breastfeeding safe, which is important to consider during the postpartum period.
Read the Prescribing Information
One helpful tip when researching a contraceptive option is to search the product name followed by “prescribing information PDF.” These documents contain the official side effects, contraindications, and warnings associated with the medication or device.
Many women are surprised by the amount of information included in these documents that they were never told during routine appointments.
Hormonal Birth Control and Future Fertility
If your long-term goal is to grow your family, it is worth considering how birth control may affect your fertility timeline.
Hormonal contraceptive use may temporarily lower ovarian reserves and can take time for the body to recover after stopping use. Depending on the method, cycles may normalize anywhere from a few months to over a year after discontinuation. Some women conceive immediately after stopping hormonal contraceptives, while others experience a longer transition period.
It is also important to support the body nutritionally after discontinuing hormonal contraceptives, as depletion can impact overall health and pregnancy wellness.
Non-Hormonal Birth Control Options
Non-hormonal contraceptive options include:
- Barrier methods
- Fertility Awareness Method (FAM)
- Withdrawal (“pull out”) method
- Spermicides
- Copper IUD
Each method has risks and benefits. For example, some couples successfully use withdrawal for years, while others become pregnant with this method. You may prefer methods with more structured tracking or added protection.
The Copper IUD is considered non-hormonal because it does not release synthetic hormones, though it still carries its own potential risks and side effects.
Fertility Awareness Method (FAM)
In my opinion, the Fertility Awareness Method is one of the most empowering options for many women, whether the goal is avoiding pregnancy or trying to conceive.
FAM involves tracking:
- Cervical mucus
- Basal body temperature
- Cervical position
Learning to understand your body’s patterns can provide valuable insight into overall health. Changes in your cycle can sometimes reflect stress, illness, thyroid dysfunction, or other underlying concerns.
When practiced correctly, Fertility Awareness can be highly effective without adding synthetic hormones to the body. Working with a trained instructor or fertility specialist can help shorten the learning curve and improve confidence with chart interpretation.
Recommended Resources
If you want to learn more about hormonal and non-hormonal birth control options, these books are excellent educational resources:
- The Fifth Vital Sign by Lisa Hendrickson-Jack
- Period Repair Manual by Lara Briden
- Taking Charge of Your Fertility by Toni Weschler
- The Garden of Fertility by Katie Singer
- The Complete Guide to Fertility Awareness by Jane Knight
You may also enjoy the Fertility Friday podcast for additional education on fertility awareness and reproductive health.
Permanent Birth Control Options
There are also permanent contraceptive methods that may be appropriate for some families, including:
- Vasectomy
- Tubal ligation
- Tubal implants
- Hysterectomy
These options should be discussed thoroughly with a trusted healthcare provider to fully understand the risks, benefits, and long-term implications.
Final Thoughts
There is no universally “best” birth control method. Your health history, family goals, breastfeeding status, personal values, and overall wellness all matter when making this decision.
Whatever method you choose — or choose not to use — take the time to research it carefully. Ask questions. Read the prescribing information. Understand the risks and benefits. Informed consent matters, especially when it comes to your hormones, fertility, and long-term health.
Find further information on Family Planning and Fertility Resources, options for your family.
