Non-Hormonal

Non-Hormonal Contraceptives at a Glance:

	male condoms	female condom	copper intrauterine device	vaginal barrier
also called			IUD	diaphragm
How effective is this method?	97%	95%	99%	94%
How many options are available?	multiple	1	1*	multiple
How often do I need to use it?	A new one must be used every time you have sex.	A new one must be used every time you have sex.	Once inserted in the uterus, it can be left in place for up to 10 years.	Must be used every time you have sex. Fresh spermicide must be applied each time.
Are there any interruptions with this method?	Must be applied when the penis is erect. May cause a slight interruption before sex.	A female condom can be inserted up to 8 hours before sex.	No.	The diaphragm can be inserted 6 to 8 hours before sex.
How quickly can I get pregnant if I stop using this method?	Without this device, there is no protection against pregnancy.	Without this device, there is no protection against pregnancy.	Once removed, fertility may return within about 1 month.	Without this device, there is no protection against pregnancy.
Do I need to see a healthcare professional to start this method?	No.	No.	Yes, your healthcare provider inserts and removes the IUD.	Yes, you need to be fitted and must learn how to use the cervical cap.
Do I need a prescription?	No.	No.	Yes.	Yes.
Does this method protect against HIV and STIs?	Yes, unless the condom slips off or is torn.	Yes, unless the condom slips off or is torn.	No.	Diaphragms do not protect against HIV/AIDS. There is a mild reduction in the risk of some STIs.

Condoms are necessary when you need to protect yourself or your partner from STIs or when you do not know that you are both infection-free. Latex or polyurethane male condoms give you and your partner the most effective possible protection from STIs, including infection with HIV. Natural membrane (sheepskin) condoms do not protect you against all STIs.
There are latex or polyurethane (for those with latex allergies) available.

The female condom is a tube of soft plastic (polyurethane) with a closed end. Each end has a ring or rim. The ring at the closed end is inserted deep into the vagina over the cervix, like a diaphragm, to hold the tube in place. The ring at the open end remains outside the opening of the vagina. The female condom can be inserted up to 8 hours before sexual intercourse. It is not used with spermicide. It should not be used at the same time as a male condom.

Copper is toxic to sperm. It makes the uterus and fallopian tubes produce fluid that kills sperm.
Learn more about copper IUDs at paragard.com.

The diaphragm is a round, dome-shaped device made of rubber that has a firm, flexible rim. It fits inside a woman's vagina and covers the cervix. It should always be used with a sperm-killing cream or jelly (spermicide).