How to choose the best form of birth control for you
Choosing the right birth control is a deeply personal decision, and one that can impact your hormones, energy, cycle, skin, and overall well-being. Whether you're preventing pregnancy, managing hormone-related symptoms, or just wanting to better understand your cycle, there’s a method of contraception that’s right for you.
As a naturopathic doctor in Kelowna, I help women explore all their options, from hormonal to non-hormonal methods, so they can make empowered, informed decisions about their bodies.
1. Understand Your Goals
Start by asking: What do I want my birth control to do for me?
Your reasons could include:
Preventing pregnancy
Create a predictable menstrual cycle
Reducing acne
Managing PMS or painful periods
Supporting a hormone-free lifestyle
Your goals help guide the right choice for your body and lifestyle.
2. Know Your Options: Hormonal vs. Non-Hormonal
Let’s break down the most common types of birth control into two categories:
Hormonal Birth Control
These methods use synthetic hormones (estrogen, progestin, or both) to prevent ovulation and alter the uterine lining.
Common types include:
The Pill: Easy to use, but requires daily consistency.
Hormonal IUD (e.g., Mirena, Kyleena): Long-term, low-maintenance.
The Patch or Ring: Weekly or monthly use.
The Shot (Depo-Provera): Administered every 12 weeks.
Pros:
Highly effective
Can reduce heavy or painful periods
May improve acne or PMS
Cons:
Can impact mood, libido, or energy
Not suitable for everyone (e.g., history of migraines or clotting disorders)
Alters your natural hormone rhythm
Non-Hormonal Birth Control
These methods avoid synthetic hormones and may align better with a more natural or holistic lifestyle.
Options include:
Copper IUD (e.g., Paragard): Hormone-free, effective for up to 10 years
Condoms: Provide STI protection and don’t affect hormones
Fertility Awareness Methods (FAM): Track ovulation through temperature, cervical mucus, and cycle patterns
Withdrawal or Abstinence: Less effective unless used carefully
Pros:
No hormonal side effects
May support natural cycle tracking
Ideal for those sensitive to synthetic hormones
Cons:
Higher user error rate for some methods (e.g., FAM or withdrawal)
Copper IUD may increase period flow or cramps
3. Consider Your Health History
Before choosing a method, it’s important to review:
Any history of blood clots, migraines, or hormone-sensitive conditions
Menstrual symptoms or irregular cycles
Whether you're postpartum, breastfeeding, or planning to conceive soon
A naturopathic doctor can help you weigh the risks and benefits of each option based on your personal health.
4. Align With Your Lifestyle
Ask yourself:
Am I consistent with daily habits?
Do I want a “set-it-and-forget-it” option?
Would I prefer hormone-free contraception?
Am I open to tracking my cycle naturally?
Your lifestyle, preferences, and comfort level all matter when deciding which method will work best long-term.
5. Try, Learn, and Reassess
Birth control isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and your needs may change over time. You might try one method, realize it’s not a fit, and explore others. That’s okay! The most important thing is that you feel informed and in control of your reproductive health.
Want Help Choosing Birth Control?
As a naturopathic doctor, I offer individualized birth control consultations to help you:
Understand your hormonal health
Review all your contraceptive options
Choose a method that aligns with your lifestyle and goals
Whether you want to come off hormonal birth control or are looking for a hormone-free solution, I’m here to guide you through the process.
Book a consultation with me today to explore your birth control options in a safe, supportive space.