Hormone-free contraception
Contraception entirely without hormones — it works, and used correctly it is surprisingly reliable. But "used correctly" is the decisive phrase. We tell you honestly how safe each method is and what it demands of you.
The symptothermal method — underrated, but demanding
Basal temperature plus cervical mucus, evaluated by fixed rules (e.g. Sensiplan): fertile days can be identified surprisingly precisely — with consistent use, the Pearl Index is around 0.4–1.8. That is better than the reputation of "natural contraception".
But: the method demands daily measurement, documentation, and abstinence or a barrier method during the fertile phase. Cycle apps alone, without temperature and mucus observation, are not contraception — we say it that bluntly because we see the consequences in practice. If you want to learn the method, we support you getting started and review your charts with you.
Diaphragm & barrier methods
The diaphragm (with contraceptive gel) is inserted before sex and must be fitted individually — the right size and practised handling determine its safety. We fit it and practise with you until it sits right.
Condom and femidom are the only methods that additionally protect against sexually transmitted infections — solid as sole contraception when used consistently, and combined with the symptothermal method on fertile days they form a coherent overall system.
- Diaphragm: fitting at the practice, fit check after weight change or childbirth
- Condoms: mind the fit — the standard size does not fit everyone
- Combining methods increases overall safety considerably
Honesty to finish: who hormone-free does (not) suit
Hormone-free contraception suits you if you are willing to engage with your cycle and accept a certain error tolerance — or combine it with the copper IUD, the only hormone-free method offering "insert and forget".
It does not suit you if a pregnancy would currently be a medical or personal no-go while you also have irregular cycles, shift work or little tolerance for routine. Then the honest advice is: an IUD — with or without hormones. Exactly this weighing-up is the core of our counselling.
Frequent questions about hormone-free contraception
Is a cycle app enough for contraception?
No. Apps that only calculate calendar data make predictions — they do not measure. Only systems with temperature and/or hormone measurement following validated rules, used correctly, are approved and reliable as contraception.
How long does it take to learn the symptothermal method?
Expect about three cycles until you evaluate confidently. Use an additional barrier method during this learning phase. After that the effort is small: one measurement in the morning, a short note.
Is withdrawal a method?
As deliberate contraception: no. The Pearl Index is typically 4–18 — too unsafe if pregnancy is out of the question. To be classed honestly as "better than nothing", no more.
What about sterilisation?
A final decision that we discuss with an open mind — laparoscopic for women, a considerably smaller procedure for men (vasectomy). With completed family planning, the partner’s vasectomy is often the most rational option in the couple comparison.
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Ask your questionHormone-free — but done right.
Method counselling, diaphragm fitting or getting started with the symptothermal method: we take the time an honest decision needs.
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