What Are the Alternatives to Birth Control Pill?

Duly Care
Jun 27
11 min read

Contraceptive methods are tools or methods that help women avoid unintended pregnancies. The birth control pill is one of the most common contraceptive methods to prevent pregnancy. But it is not the only method. Some women may not want to use the birth control pill due to certain risk factors, fear of side effects, existing health conditions, or personal reasons, including taking it every day. Whatever the reason, it is important to know that there are many other safe and effective options available.

In this blog, we will first explain what the birth control pill is and how it works. We will, then, explore other alternatives that women can use instead of the pill.

Key Takeaways:

The birth control pill is a hormonal medication taken daily to prevent pregnancy. These contain synthetic versions of the natural female hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Some women look for other birth control options besides the pill if they have certain risk factors like migraines, blood clots, or have temporary side effects like headaches or mood changes, or have existing health conditions, or prefer non-hormonal, or long-term alternatives. The pill also requires daily use, which may not suit everyone.
Other contraceptive options include male and female condoms, diaphragm, cervical cap, contraceptive sponge, contraceptive patch, contraceptive injection, vaginal ring, hormonal and copper IUDs, contraceptive implant, tubal ligation, and vasectomy.
Natural contraceptive methods include withdrawal, fertility awareness methods (calendar, basal body temperature, cervical mucus, symptothermal), and the lactational amenorrhoea method (LAM), though these are less reliable and depend on strict tracking and timing.

What is the Birth Control Pill?

The birth control pill, also known as the oral contraceptive pill, is a hormonal medication taken daily to prevent pregnancy. It contains synthetic versions of the natural female hormones estrogen and progesterone. These hormones work by:

Stopping the release of an egg from the ovary each month (a process known as ovulation), which prevents fertilisation of the egg by sperm and the start of a possible pregnancy.
Thickening the cervical mucus, which makes it more difficult for the sperm to reach the egg.
Thinning the inner lining of the uterus, which prevents a fertilised egg from attaching, growing and developing into a pregnancy.

There are two main types of birth control pills: the combined oral contraceptive pill, which contains both estrogen and progestin, and the progestin-only pill, often called the mini-pill. Each works slightly differently and may suit different health needs. Both types are over 99% effective when used correctly and consistently.

The birth control pill offers several non-contraceptive benefits. It can help regulate periods, reduce cramps and heavy bleeding, and improve acne. It’s also used to manage conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, and PMS. Long-term use may lower the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers.

Why Look for Alternatives to the Birth Control Pill?

Many women search online for questions like “What can I use instead of the pill?” or “What is the best alternative to birth control?” These are valid and important concerns. Not every woman feels comfortable using the birth control pill, and there can be a range of reasons for exploring other options.

Some women may experience temporary side effects such as nausea, vomiting, headaches, mood changes, etc. Others may have medical conditions, like migraines or a history of blood clots, that make birth control pills unsuitable. There are also women who simply prefer to avoid hormones altogether, find it hard to remember a daily pill, or are looking for long-term or natural alternatives.

The good news is that contraception is not one-size-fits-all. There are many safe, effective methods available today.

What Are Other Birth Control Options Besides the Birth Control Pill?

There are many alternatives to the birth control pill. Each option works in a different way to help prevent pregnancy. Some involve hormones, while others do not. Some are used only at the time of sex, while others are long-acting or even permanent. Choosing the right method depends on your health, comfort, how often you have sex, and whether you want children in the future. Below are some of the most common birth control options available today.

Condom

The condom is a barrier method available for both men and women.

Male condom: One of the most accessible alternatives is the male condom. It is a thin sheath, usually made of latex or polyurethane, that covers the penis during sex and stops sperm from entering the vagina. A male condom is about 98% effective when used perfectly. A condom is also the only method that helps protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which makes it a popular choice for many people.
Female condom: It works in a similar way as the male condom but is worn inside the vagina. It is slightly less effective compared to the male condom, with about 95% efficacy when used perfectly.

Diaphragm and Cervical Cap

Other barrier methods include the diaphragm and the cervical cap. These are flexible, dome-shaped cups inserted into the vagina before sex to cover the cervix and prevent sperm from entering the uterus. These must be used with a special cream or gel called spermicide, which can kill sperm.

A diaphragm and a cervical cap can be reused and must stay in place for several hours after sex to ensure effectiveness. While these methods offer more control to women, they do require proper fitting from a doctor and practice to use correctly. When used perfectly, the diaphragm is 94% effective and the cervical cap is about 86% effective.

Contraceptive Sponge

Another option is the contraceptive sponge. This is a soft, round sponge containing spermicide that is inserted deep into the vagina before sex. It works by blocking the cervix and killing sperm. The sponge is about 76 to 88% effective, depending on whether a woman has given birth before. It can be left in place for up to 24 hours and is discarded after use. While convenient for some, it is less effective for women who have previously had a vaginal birth.

Contraceptive Patch

Some women prefer methods that don't need to be used during every sexual encounter. The contraceptive patch is a small, square patch worn on the skin of the arm, back, or buttocks. It contains and releases hormones similar to those in the birth control pill and works in the same way as the pill. The patch is changed once a week and may be easier to remember than a daily birth control pill. It is about 99% effective when used perfectly. The patch is used for three weeks and removed for one week to allow for a period-like withdrawal bleeding.

Vaginal Ring

A method that combines both convenience and longer-lasting effects than a daily birth control pill is the vaginal ring. This is a soft, flexible ring inserted into the vagina, where it slowly releases hormones over three weeks. After that, it is removed for one week to allow for a period-like withdrawal bleeding. The ring is about 99% effective when used perfectly.

Contraceptive Injection

Another hormone-based method is the contraceptive injection. This injection is taken every three months and contains progestin. It is about 99% effective when used perfectly. However, some women experience changes in their periods while using it, and fertility may take a few months to return after stopping the injections.

Contraceptive Implant

Another long-acting option is the contraceptive hormonal implant. This is a small, flexible rod placed under the skin of the upper arm by a doctor. It slowly releases progestin into the bloodstream to prevent ovulation. The implant is more than 99% effective and can last up to three years. It is a good choice for women who want something discreet and worry-free.

Intrauterine Device (IUD)

For women who want long-term contraception without having to think about it daily or even monthly, the intrauterine device (IUD) is an excellent option. An IUD is a small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by a doctor. There are two types of IUDs: hormonal and copper. Both types are more than 99% effective.

Hormonal IUD: It releases a small amount of progestin and can last for 3 to 8 years, depending on the brand.
Copper IUD: It does not contain any hormones and works by creating an environment in the uterus that is toxic to sperm. It can last up to 10 years.

Tubal Ligation and Vasectomy

Some women know they do not want to have children in the future and choose permanent methods. One of these is tubal ligation, sometimes called “getting your tubes tied.” It is a surgical procedure that blocks or cuts the fallopian tubes, preventing eggs from reaching the uterus. Tubal ligation is considered permanent, although reversal is sometimes possible.

For men, the equivalent is a vasectomy, a surgery that cuts the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. Vasectomy reversal is possible through a surgical procedure, but it’s not always successful and does not guarantee the return of fertility.

These methods are over 99% effective since there is no scope for incorrect use by the individual using this method of contraception.

Together, these options offer a wide range of possibilities for women looking for alternatives to the birth control pill. Some methods are hormonal, others are not. Some are used only once in a while, while others last for years. The key is to choose the one that fits your needs and to talk to a doctor for guidance.

Natural Options for Birth Control

Many women wonder if there are some natural methods of contraception. While natural contraception may sound attractive, it comes with some important limitations. These methods depend heavily on human behaviour and a woman’s ability to correctly track and interpret her body’s signals. Illness, travel, stress, and irregular cycles can all affect fertility signs, making the methods less reliable. It also takes time and effort to learn how to use them properly.

Moreover, none of the natural methods offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). For women who have multiple sexual partners or whose partner has an unknown STI status, it is safer to combine natural methods with barrier methods like condoms.

Some women choose natural contraception for religious or personal reasons, or simply because they want to avoid using hormonal methods. That is completely valid, and when used properly, these methods can work well. Still, it is important to be realistic about their risks and to consult a doctor or fertility educator when starting out. Some women even combine natural methods with other forms of birth control during their most fertile days for added protection.

Withdrawal Method

Also known as coitus interrupts, in this method, the male partner pulls the penis out of the vagina before ejaculation to prevent sperm from entering. While this might sound simple, it is not always easy to do correctly. Additionally, pre-ejaculate fluid, which comes out before ejaculation, can also contain sperm. If even a small amount enters the vagina, it can cause pregnancy.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the withdrawal method is typically about 78% effective, meaning that 22 out of 100 women may still get pregnant in a year.

Fertility Awareness-Based Methods (FABMs)

Another group of methods is called Fertility Awareness-Based Methods (FABMs). These involve tracking the menstrual cycle to figure out which days are "fertile", when a woman can become pregnant, and avoiding unprotected sex during that time. There are several ways to track fertility, each based on different body signals.

The Calendar Method, also called the rhythm method, involves counting the days of the menstrual cycle to estimate ovulation. Ovulation usually happens around 14 days before a period starts, but this can vary from person to person and month to month. To use this method, a woman must track her periods for several months to understand her cycle pattern. However, it can be less accurate for women with irregular cycles. Typically, the calendar method is around 76-86% effective.
The Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Method involves measuring body temperature every morning before getting out of bed. A woman's temperature rises slightly—by about 0.2 to 0.5°C, after ovulation. By tracking these changes, she can know when she has ovulated and avoid sex during fertile days. However, illness, stress, or lack of sleep can affect temperature, making it harder to read accurately. With perfect use, this method is 95 to 99% effective, but in everyday life, the failure rate can be much higher.
Another approach is the Cervical Mucus Method, also known as the Billings Ovulation Method. This involves checking the texture and appearance of vaginal discharge, also called cervical mucus. Around ovulation, this mucus becomes clear, stretchy, and slippery - similar to raw egg whites. That is a sign of high fertility. A woman must avoid unprotected sex on days when this type of mucus is present. While this method can be up to 98% effective when practised perfectly, it can be hard to interpret the mucus correctly, especially if there are infections or hormonal changes.
Some women choose to combine several of these methods in what’s called the Symptothermal Method. This means tracking temperature, mucus, and other signs like mild pelvic pain or changes in the cervix. Combining methods increases accuracy, but it also requires learning and consistently tracking multiple signals every day. When done perfectly, this method is around 95-98% effective, but typically it is much less effective.

Lactational Amenorrhoea Method (LAM)

Another natural option is the Lactational Amenorrhoea Method (LAM), which is used by women who are breastfeeding. During the first six months after giving birth, if a woman breastfeeds very frequently and has not started having her period again, her body naturally stops ovulating. This can act as a temporary form of birth control. When done correctly, LAM is up to 98% effective. However, it only works if the baby is fed exclusively with breast milk (no bottles or long gaps between feeds), the mother has not had her period since delivery, and the baby is under six months old. Once any of these conditions change, LAM becomes unreliable and other contraception is needed.

Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or when a primary birth control method has failed, such as a broken condom or a missed pill. It is not meant for regular use, but it can be an important backup option in urgent situations.

Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD)

One highly effective method of emergency contraception is the copper intrauterine device (IUD). When inserted by a doctor within five days of unprotected sex, it can prevent pregnancy by interfering with sperm movement and stopping fertilisation. It is the most effective emergency contraceptive available, with a failure rate of less than 1%. Although typically used for long-term birth control, it can also serve this emergency purpose.

Emergency Contraceptive Pill

Another option is the emergency contraceptive pill, often called the “morning-after pill” or “Plan B.” This pill works mainly by delaying ovulation, preventing the release of an egg. In some cases, it may also stop a fertilised egg from attaching to the uterus.

There are two types of emergency contraceptive pills. One type, containing levonorgestrel, should be taken as soon as possible and within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex. The other, containing ulipristal acetate, is effective for up to 120 hours (5 days), and may work slightly better, especially closer to ovulation. The sooner either pill is taken, the more effective it is.

Depending on timing, emergency contraceptive pills can reduce the risk of pregnancy by 75 to 89%. While safe, they are not meant for regular use and do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Conclusion

The birth control pill is just one of many options available to women today. Whether you're looking for something long-term, hormone-free, or easier to manage, there is a contraceptive method to suit your needs. Each method has its own advantages, effectiveness rates, and considerations. The best approach is to talk with a doctor to explore what works best for your health, comfort, and future plans.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the 100% effective method of contraception?
No method is 100% foolproof, except complete abstinence from sex. However, long-acting reversible contraceptives like hormonal IUDs and implants are over 99% effective as they are a fit-and-forget option that has almost no risk of human error.
Are birth control pills better than condoms?
Birth control pills are more effective at preventing pregnancy when taken correctly, but they do not protect against STIs. Condoms are less effective at preventing pregnancy, but do provide protection against STIs. For maximum protection, many women use both methods together.
Can castor seeds prevent pregnancy?
There is no scientific evidence that castor seeds can prevent pregnancy. Using unproven methods can be unsafe and ineffective. It is advisable to rely on medically approved contraceptive options.
What should I do if my contraceptive fails?
If your contraceptive fails, taking emergency contraception as soon as possible can help reduce the risk of pregnancy. It’s important to speak with a doctor for advice on what to do next.

Important

This blog, including its text, images, and infographics, is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. For personalised advice, always consult a doctor.

References

UK National Health Service. Combined Contraceptive Pill. 2023. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/combined-contraceptive-pill
World Health Organization (WHO). Contraception. Accessed on 12 February 2025. https://www.who.int/health-topics/contraception#tab=tab_1
World Health Organization (WHO). Family Planning /Contraception Methods. Accessed on 12 February 2025. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/family-planning-contraception
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Contraception. Accessed on 12 February 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/contraception/about/index.html
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). The Right to Contraceptive Information and Services for Women and Adolescents. Accessed on 12 February 2025. https://www.unfpa.org/sites/default/files/resource-pdf/Contraception.pdf