Ladies, we’ve all been there: the moment of dread when you realize your period is late and you start to panic. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back! Viya Health is dedicated to helping women of all ages in Africa understand their contraception options. Today, we’ll be diving into the world of hormonal vs non-hormonal contraceptives and giving you the tools, you need to determine which one is right for you.
Let’s start with a quick overview of the two main types of contraception: hormonal and non-hormonal. Hormonal contraceptives work by regulating your hormones to prevent ovulation (the release of an egg from your ovaries), while non-hormonal contraceptives physically block the sperm from reaching the egg.
Now, let’s take a closer look at each type.
Hormonal Contraceptives Hormonal contraceptives come in a variety of forms, including the pill, the patch, the ring, injections, and even a hormone-releasing intrauterine device (IUD). They are 99% effective when used correctly and are a popular choice for women who want a low-maintenance contraception option. However, it’s important to note that hormonal contraceptives can have side effects, such as nausea, headaches, mood changes, and weight gain.
Non-Hormonal Contraceptives Non-hormonal contraceptives include barrier methods, such as condoms and diaphragms, and non-hormonal IUDs. These options don’t use hormones to prevent pregnancy, which makes them a great option for women who are sensitive to hormonal contraceptives or who want to avoid hormones altogether. However, non-hormonal contraceptives are slightly less effective than hormonal options, with a failure rate of about 2-20%.
So, how do you determine which type of contraception is right for you?
The best way to figure this out is to speak with a medical professional. Our Viya Health doctor locator makes it easy for you to find a doctor near you who can help you make an informed decision. However, there are a few things you can consider before your appointment to help guide the conversation:
- Do you have any medical conditions that would make hormonal contraceptives unsafe for you to use?
- Are you comfortable taking hormones?
- Are you okay with a slightly higher failure rate in exchange for a non-hormonal option?
Once you’ve considered these questions, it’s time to book that appointment and get the expert advice you need, simply visit our doctor locator page to book an appointment nearest to you.
In conclusion, it’s important to remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to contraception. Every woman is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. But with Viya Health by your side, you can rest assured that you’ll have the information you need to make the best decision for you.
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