For people like me who prefer natural alternatives due to concerns about side effects or potential risks associated with hormonal or barrier methods of contraception and other medical interventions, you would be surprised to know that as a lady there are other less invasive options for contraception. It's understandable that some individuals may find this offensive, but you can fight in ignorance. It's important to clarify that while hormonal contraceptives, including IUDs and combination birth control pills, can have an impact on hormonal regularity and balance, their use is a personal decision that should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Some women may choose to use hormonal contraceptives for various reasons, including contraception, menstrual cycle regulation, or management of specific health conditions. The use of contraception already induces hormonal imbalance, which obviously will alter the menstrual cycle and all that comes with it.
While hormonal contraceptives can potentially affect hormone levels, their impact varies among individuals. Some women will usually experience hormonal imbalances or side effects while using hormonal contraceptives, while others may not until certain factors are triggered like its removal or lifestyle change. The decision to use contraceptives should be made based on an informed discussion with a healthcare professional who can evaluate individual health needs, medical history, and potential risks and benefits.
For the reason of high permanent risks as against the temporal benefits the conventional contraceptive pills and IUDs offers to the female body, it should interest you to know that there are other natural alternatives you can use or things you can do to prevent the risks of cancer and other threatening complications that conventional contraceptives offer without influencing hormonal imbalances.
Natural Contraceptive: Plant-based Options
While plant-based options for contraception may not be as widely recognized or as extensively studied as the conventional hormonal or barrier methods since they can't be so patented, there are some natural substances with potential contraceptive properties. Many also fear that the effectiveness of these methods can vary, and they may not provide the same level of reliability as hormonal or barrier methods. This is no problem at all to me as what we want is not some destructive hormonal compound impairing our health. A conscious woman will know her body so well and with an understanding of the phases of her menstrual cycle can always get the most result with natural and more beneficial options of contraception.
Here are a few plant-based options that have been traditionally used for ages and proven to yield desired effects:
Neem
Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a tree native to India, several Asian and many African countries. It is so multifunctional that its leaf extracts are used to reduce tooth plaque and treat lice. Neem has been traditionally used as a natural contraceptive for many years. Neem oil and neem leaf extracts have shown potential spermicidal and anti-fertility effects. This implies that both men and women get a lot of benefits from neem extracts. To prevent pregnancy, when neem is applied before intercourse, its phytochemical properties render the sperm cells immotile. This was confirmed in vitro, and using animal subjects.
The Neem Effect
The spermicide effect neem gives is very reversible in 4-8 weeks, which means discontinuing the use of the neem extract or oil will again lead to the conception of a fertile woman during intercourse. There are many studies that tested the oral and intrauterine use of neem leaves and oil respectively. Both had the same effect on conception and were reversed after discontinuing the use. But I will recommend the intrauterine oil use for couples since it is less invasive, and immediate in action even if the pull-out game is not so perfect. The sperms just go nowhere.
Neem Oil: Neem oil can be used as a topical contraceptive. It is typically applied to the cervix or inserted into the vagina before intercourse. The oil is believed to have spermicidal properties, potentially immobilizing or killing sperm to prevent fertilization.
Neem Leaf Extracts: Neem leaf extracts are also available in the form of creams, gels, suppositories, or vaginal tablets. These formulations may be used before sexual activity as a potential contraceptive.
Regarding the timing of neem usage, it is generally recommended to use neem-based contraceptives just before sexual intercourse. This allows for the potential spermicidal effects to be active during the time of exposure to sperm. It's important to carefully follow the instructions provided with the specific neem product you choose or consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Neem-based contraceptives (products) are available in the form of creams, gels, suppositories, or vaginal tablets. However, it's crucial to discuss your purpose of use with a healthcare professional or herbalist before you start using neem-based contraceptives for observations, as their effectiveness and proper usage may vary.
Fertility Awareness-based Methods (FAM)
Additionally, Fertility Awareness-based Methods (FAM) can be used in combination with plant-based contraceptives. FAM involves tracking menstrual cycles, monitoring basal body temperature, cervical mucus changes, and other indicators to identify fertile and non-fertile days. This method requires diligent observation and understanding of one's own menstrual cycle. Working with a certified fertility awareness educator can provide valuable guidance and support for using FAM effectively.
Also, since sexual intercourse is like a dialogue which is a two-way act, the use of contraceptives and adopting methods to prevent pregnancy in couples should also involve both spouses. Seek out every non-invasive method with no risk to your health. Mastering a pullout tactic or the use of condoms for men should also be encouraged.
Making informed decisions about contraceptives requires weighing the benefits and potential risks of each method, considering individual health factors, and consulting with healthcare professionals. This ensures that you have access to reliable and evidence-based information that can guide your contraceptive choices.
For the sake of science, before relying solely on plant-based options for contraceptives, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or herbalist who specializes in this area. They can provide guidance on proper usage, dosage, and potential risks associated with specific contraceptives.
Ultimately, the choice of contraceptive method should be made on an individual basis, taking into consideration personal preferences, lifestyle factors, and discussions with a healthcare professional.