Washington DC Guide to Non-Hormonal Birth Control.
Washington DC Guide to Non‑Hormonal Birth Control
Not everyone wants or can use hormonal birth control—and that’s completely okay. Whether it’s due to health reasons, personal preference, or sensitivity to hormones, there are safe and effective non-hormonal birth control options available in the Washington, DC area, including Camp Springs.
This guide from Metropolitan Family Planning Clinic (MFPC) explains the key differences between male and female condoms, spermicides, diaphragms, and cervical caps—so you can make informed choices about what’s right for your body.
Male vs. Female Condoms
Male condoms are one of the most accessible and widely used non-hormonal options. They are:
- Easy to purchase over the counter
- Highly effective with proper use
- The only method that also protects against STIs
Female condoms, also called internal condoms, offer another great option:
- Worn inside the vagina
- Can be inserted hours before sex
- Also protect against STIs
- Give the receptive partner control
Which is better? It depends on personal preference. Some people prefer internal condoms for their comfort, while others stick with external ones for convenience.
Washington DC Guide to Non-Hormonal Birth Control: Spermicides
Spermicides work by killing or immobilizing sperm before they reach the egg. Available as gels, foams, films, or suppositories, they are:
- Hormone-free and easy to find
- Meant to be used right before sex
- Often paired with other methods like condoms or diaphragms
On their own, spermicides are less effective (around 71% with typical use), but they’re a good option when layered with other protection.
Washington DC Guide: Diaphragms and Cervical Caps
These are barrier methods placed inside the vagina to cover the cervix and block sperm from entering the uterus.
Diaphragms:
- Custom-fitted by a provider
- Used with spermicide
- Reusable for up to two years
Cervical caps:
- Smaller and more rigid than diaphragms
- Works better for people who haven’t given birth vaginally
- Also used with spermicide
Neither protects against STIs, but they’re great hormone-free options if you want a longer-lasting, reusable method.
Non-Hormonal Birth Control: What’s Right for You?
Non-hormonal birth control may be a good fit if you:
- Prefer not to use hormones
- Are breastfeeding
- Want an on-demand method
- Need STI protection (in the case of condoms)
If you’re unsure, talking with a provider at MFPC can help you understand your options. We offer confidential consultations and guidance to help you choose what works best for your lifestyle.
Find Your Fit at MFPC
At Metropolitan Family Planning Clinic, we proudly offer counseling and access to non-hormonal options at our Camp Springs and Washington, DC locations. Whether you need condoms, a diaphragm fitting, or want to talk through your options, we’re here for you.
To get started, schedule a visit with MFPC. You can also read more blog posts about contraception to explore your choices.
And if you want to hear directly from our patients, check out our Google reviews.