Female contraception is a crucial aspect of reproductive health for women all over the world. It allows women to take control of their bodies and make informed decisions about starting or expanding their families. But how exactly do these contraceptives work? What are the working principles behind them?
The main function of female contraception is to prevent pregnancy by interfering with the natural processes of ovulation, fertilization, and implantation. Various methods are used to achieve this goal, including hormonal birth control, barrier methods, and intrauterine devices (IUDs).
One of the most common methods of contraception is hormonal birth control, which involves the use of synthetic hormones to regulate a woman’s menstrual cycle. These hormones work by inhibiting ovulation, thickening the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg, and thinning the lining of the uterus to discourage implantation.
Barrier methods, on the other hand, physically block sperm from entering the uterus. This can be achieved through the use of condoms, diaphragms, or cervical caps. These methods create a barrier between sperm and the egg, preventing fertilization from occurring.
IUDs are small devices that are inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. They work by releasing either hormones or copper, which creates an inhospitable environment for sperm and disrupts the fertilization process. Additionally, some IUDs thicken the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg.
Understanding the mechanism of action behind female contraception is crucial for women who are considering their birth control options. By knowing how these methods work, women can make informed decisions that align with their reproductive goals and overall health.
Overview of Female Contraception
Female contraception is a method or device used to prevent pregnancy. It works by controlling the fertility of a woman and preventing the fertilization of her eggs. There are different types of female contraceptives available, each with its own mechanism of action and working principles.
What are Female Contraceptives?
Female contraceptives are birth control methods designed specifically for women. They are used to prevent pregnancy by either inhibiting ovulation, blocking fertilization, or altering the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg. Some common forms of female contraceptives include hormonal methods such as birth control pills, patches, rings, and injections, as well as barrier methods like condoms, diaphragms, and intrauterine devices (IUDs).
How do Female Contraceptives Work?
The working principles of female contraceptives vary depending on the type of contraception. Hormonal contraceptives, for example, work by delivering synthetic hormones into the woman’s body. These hormones mimic the natural hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent ovulation. They also thicken the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg, and thin the lining of the uterus, reducing the chance of implantation.
Barrier methods, on the other hand, physically prevent sperm from reaching the egg. Condoms, for example, create a barrier between the penis and vagina, preventing sperm from entering. Diaphragms and cervical caps block the entrance to the uterus, while IUDs create a hostile environment in the uterus, making it difficult for fertilization and implantation to occur.
It is important to note that different methods of female contraception have varying degrees of effectiveness and may also come with potential side effects or risks. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable method of contraception based on individual needs and medical history.
| Method | Mechanism of Action |
|---|---|
| Hormonal contraceptives | Inhibit ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, thin uterine lining |
| Barrier methods | Create physical barrier to prevent sperm from reaching egg |
| IUDs | Create a hostile environment in the uterus |
Female contraception plays a crucial role in empowering women to make decisions about their reproductive health and manage their fertility. It offers a safe and effective way to prevent unwanted pregnancies, allowing women to plan their families and pursue their goals with greater freedom.
How Female Contraceptives Work
Female contraceptives, also known as birth control or contraception, are medical devices or medications that are used by women to prevent pregnancy. The main function of female contraceptives is to control the reproductive system and prevent the release of an egg from the ovaries. This prevents the egg from being fertilized by sperm and ultimately leads to the prevention of pregnancy.
Working Principles
There are several different mechanisms by which female contraceptives work:
- 1. Hormonal contraceptives: These contraceptives contain synthetic hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, which mimic the natural hormones in a woman’s body. They work by suppressing ovulation, meaning that the ovaries do not release an egg for fertilization. Additionally, hormonal contraceptives thicken the cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus and reach the egg.
- 2. Barrier methods: Barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms or diaphragms, physically block sperm from reaching the egg. They create a barrier between the sperm and the egg, preventing fertilization from occurring.
- 3. Intrauterine devices (IUDs): IUDs are small devices that are inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. They work by altering the uterine environment, making it difficult for a fertilized egg to implant in the uterus. Some types of IUDs also release hormones that prevent ovulation.
- 4. Emergency contraception: Also known as the “morning-after pill,” emergency contraception works by preventing or delaying ovulation, depending on when it is taken in relation to unprotected sex. It can also prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus.
It is important to note that different methods of female contraception have varying levels of effectiveness and may have different side effects. It is recommended that women consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable method of contraception for their specific needs.
Hormonal Female Contraceptives
The mechanism behind hormonal female contraception:
Hormonal female contraceptives, such as birth control pills, patches, rings, and injections, function by altering the natural hormonal balance in a woman’s body to prevent pregnancy. These contraceptives contain synthetic versions of the hormones estrogen and/or progesterone, which mimic the functions of naturally produced hormones in the body.
How do hormonal female contraceptives work?
The hormones in these contraceptives work by preventing the release of eggs from the ovaries, also known as ovulation. In addition to this, they also thicken the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. Furthermore, these hormones alter the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive to the implantation of a fertilized egg.
What are the working principles of hormonal contraception?
The working principles of hormonal contraception involve suppressing ovulation, inhibiting sperm movement, and altering the uterine lining. By suppressing ovulation, these contraceptives prevent the release of eggs, eliminating the possibility of fertilization. By inhibiting sperm movement through thickening the cervical mucus, the chances of sperm reaching the egg are significantly reduced. Moreover, by altering the uterine lining, hormonal contraceptives make it less conducive for the implantation of a fertilized egg, ultimately preventing pregnancy.
Overall, hormonal female contraceptives function by manipulating the natural hormonal processes in women’s bodies to create a contraceptive effect and ensure effective birth control.
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods are a type of female contraception that work by creating a physical barrier between the sperm and the egg, preventing fertilization and thus birth control. These methods are available in different forms, including barriers made of latex or polyurethane that are inserted into the vagina before intercourse.
Working Principle
The working principle of barrier methods is based on the idea of blocking the sperm from reaching the egg. The barrier acts as a wall, preventing the sperm from entering the cervix and reaching the fallopian tubes where fertilization normally takes place.
How Do Barrier Methods Work?
Barrier methods work by physically preventing the sperm from reaching the egg. The mechanism of action may vary depending on the specific method used, but the main principle is to form a barrier that blocks the sperm’s path.
Some common barrier methods include:
- Condoms – These are a popular choice for both men and women, as they provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well as pregnancy.
- Cervical cap – This is a small, cup-shaped device that fits over the cervix to block the sperm’s entry into the uterus.
- Diaphragm – This is a shallow, dome-shaped device that covers the cervix and prevents the sperm from entering the uterus.
What Does Barrier Contraception Do?
Barrier contraception methods work by preventing the sperm from meeting the egg, thus preventing fertilization and pregnancy. They are an effective form of birth control when used correctly and consistently.
For women who prefer non-hormonal methods or want to have control over their contraception, barrier methods can be a viable option. However, it’s important to note that barrier methods do not provide protection against STIs, so it’s advisable to use them in combination with other methods for comprehensive protection.
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a form of female contraception that work by preventing fertilization and implantation of a fertilized egg. But what exactly is the mechanism behind IUDs and how do they function as birth control?
IUDs are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. There are two main types of IUDs – hormonal and non-hormonal. Hormonal IUDs release progestin, a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone, which thickens the cervical mucus and makes it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. Non-hormonal IUDs, on the other hand, are made of copper, which creates an inflammatory reaction in the uterus that is toxic to sperm and eggs.
The working principle of IUDs is based on their placement inside the uterus. Once inserted, the IUDs prevent sperm from reaching the egg by creating a physical barrier. Additionally, the hormonal IUDs have an added contraceptive effect by altering the uterine lining, making it unfavorable for implantation of a fertilized egg. These mechanisms effectively prevent pregnancy and provide long-term contraception.
So, how does the mechanism of IUDs work? The IUDs primarily work by interfering with the fertilization process and preventing implantation, rather than by preventing ovulation. This makes IUDs different from other contraceptive methods like the pill, which primarily work by inhibiting ovulation.
One important point to note is that IUDs are one of the most effective forms of contraception available. They have a failure rate of less than 1% and can provide protection against pregnancy for up to 3-10 years, depending on the type of IUD used. This makes them a popular choice for women who want long-term, highly effective birth control.
In summary, IUDs are intrauterine devices that function as a form of female contraception. They work by creating a physical barrier to prevent sperm from reaching the egg and altering the uterine lining to prevent implantation. This mechanism, along with the release of progestin or the use of copper, effectively prevents pregnancy and provides long-term contraception for women.
Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception refers to methods that are used after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure to prevent pregnancy. These methods are also known as “morning-after pills” or “post-coital contraception”.
The working principles of emergency contraception are similar to other forms of contraception. They primarily work by preventing or delaying ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovaries. Without the release of an egg, fertilization cannot occur, and pregnancy is prevented.
Emergency contraceptives function as a form of backup birth control in situations where regular contraception has not been used or has failed. They are not meant to be a regular form of contraception and should only be used in emergencies.
There are different types of emergency contraceptives available. Some contain high doses of hormones like progestin, which prevent ovulation. Others work by inhibiting the sperm from reaching the egg or by altering the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive to implantation.
Emergency contraception is effective when taken within a specific time frame after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. The mechanism of action varies depending on the type of emergency contraceptive used, but it generally works to prevent fertilization or implantation of a fertilized egg.
It is important for women to understand how emergency contraception works and to use it correctly in order for it to be effective. It should be used as soon as possible after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure and within the recommended time frame for each specific emergency contraceptive.
Emergency contraception is a valuable option for women who wish to prevent an unplanned pregnancy after a contraceptive mishap. It is not intended to replace regular contraception, but rather to provide a safety net in case of emergencies.
Sterilization Methods
Sterilization methods are a type of permanent birth control for women. Unlike other forms of contraception, sterilization methods work by preventing the eggs from meeting the sperm, thus eliminating the chances of pregnancy. This is achieved through various mechanisms and working principles.
There are two main types of female sterilization methods: tubal ligation and tubal occlusion.
- Tubal ligation: Also known as “getting your tubes tied,” tubal ligation involves surgically cutting, tying, or sealing the fallopian tubes, which are the passages that connect the ovaries to the uterus. This procedure prevents the sperm from reaching the eggs, therefore, ensuring contraception.
- Tubal occlusion: This method involves blocking or sealing the fallopian tubes using specially designed devices, such as clips or rings. The devices are placed inside the fallopian tubes, causing scar tissue to form and block the tubes, preventing the eggs from being fertilized.
Both tubal ligation and tubal occlusion are considered permanent methods of contraception. They do not affect a woman’s menstrual cycle or hormone levels and do not interfere with the action of hormones in the body.
It is important to note that sterilization methods do not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Therefore, it is advisable to use barrier methods, such as condoms, in addition to sterilization methods for dual protection.
Combination Birth Control Pills
Combination birth control pills are a type of oral contraceptive that is commonly used by women as a form of birth control. But how do these pills function?
The working principles of combination birth control pills involve a combination of hormones, usually estrogen and progestin. These hormones work together to prevent pregnancy by suppressing ovulation, thinning the lining of the uterus, and thickening the cervical mucus.
What is the mechanism behind the working of combination birth control pills?
The estrogen and progestin in combination birth control pills inhibit the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary gland. This, in turn, prevents the growth and development of the ovarian follicles, which are responsible for releasing an egg during ovulation. Without ovulation, there is no egg available for fertilization by sperm, therefore preventing pregnancy.
In addition to inhibiting ovulation, combination birth control pills also work by altering the cervical mucus. The hormones in the pills thicken the cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to penetrate the cervix and reach the uterus.
Furthermore, these pills also have an effect on the lining of the uterus. The hormones in the pills thin the lining of the uterus, making it less suitable for implantation of a fertilized egg. Thus, even if fertilization were to occur, the chances of successful implantation and pregnancy are significantly reduced.
Combination birth control pills are highly effective when taken as directed. Women typically take one pill daily at the same time each day, with a break of placebo pills for a week to allow for withdrawal bleeding. The precise combination of hormones and dosages may vary depending on the specific brand or formulation of the pill.
In conclusion, combination birth control pills work through a combination of mechanisms, including inhibition of ovulation, thickening of cervical mucus, and thinning of the uterine lining. These working principles make them an effective form of contraception for women.
Progestin-Only Pills
Progestin-only pills, also known as mini-pills, are a type of hormonal birth control that contain only progestin. These pills are an effective form of contraception for women who are unable to take estrogen-based contraceptives due to medical reasons.
The mechanism of action of progestin-only pills is different from combination birth control pills, which contain both progestin and estrogen. Progestin-only pills work primarily by thickening cervical mucus, which makes it difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize an egg.
Unlike combination birth control pills, progestin-only pills do not consistently suppress ovulation. However, they do work to inhibit the function of the ovaries, which results in a less predictable menstrual cycle. In some cases, progestin-only pills may prevent ovulation entirely, but this is not the primary mechanism by which they prevent pregnancy.
Progestin-only pills are taken every day, without a break, and it is important to take them at the same time every day for maximum effectiveness. They can be a convenient option for women who are breastfeeding, as they do not interfere with milk production.
Overall, progestin-only pills are a reliable method of contraception for women who cannot or prefer not to use estrogen-based contraceptives. By understanding the mechanism of how these pills work, women can make informed choices about their birth control options.
Hormonal Injections
Hormonal injections are a form of hormonal contraceptive that work by delivering a specific dose of hormones directly into a woman’s body. These injections are generally administered every few months, providing effective birth control for women who prefer a long-acting method.
How do Hormonal Injections Work?
The mechanism behind hormonal injections is similar to other hormonal contraceptives. The injections contain synthetic versions of the hormones progesterone or a combination of progesterone and estrogen. These hormones work by suppressing ovulation, preventing the release of eggs from the ovaries. Without an egg available for fertilization, pregnancy cannot occur.
In addition to preventing ovulation, hormonal injections also have other contraceptive functions. They thicken the cervical mucus, creating a barrier that makes it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus. This reduces the chances of fertilization even if ovulation does occur. The hormones can also thin the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive to a fertilized egg, further reducing the chances of pregnancy.
What are the Working Principles of Hormonal Contraceptives?
Hormonal contraceptives, including injections, work by altering the natural hormonal balance in a woman’s body. By introducing synthetic hormones, these contraceptives mimic the hormonal changes that naturally occur during the menstrual cycle. The hormones in the injections provide a constant level of hormones in the body, effectively preventing the release of eggs and altering the cervical mucus and uterine lining.
It is important to note that hormonal injections do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They are solely designed for pregnancy prevention. It is recommended for women to use additional barrier methods, such as condoms, to reduce the risk of STIs.
So, how does hormonal injection contraception work? By delivering hormones directly into the body, hormonal injections prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining. These mechanisms work together to provide effective birth control for women.
Transdermal Patches
Transdermal patches are a popular form of birth control for women. They are a convenient and discreet way to prevent pregnancy, and they work by delivering hormones through the skin into the bloodstream. These patches are typically placed on the lower abdomen, buttocks, or upper body, and they are left in place for a week at a time before being replaced.
How do transdermal patches work?
The function of transdermal patches is to provide a continuous release of hormones into the body. The hormones in the patch, typically a combination of estrogen and progestin, work to prevent ovulation, thicken the cervical mucus, and thin the lining of the uterus. By doing so, they help to prevent the sperm from reaching the egg and also make it more difficult for a fertilized egg to implant itself in the uterus.
Unlike other forms of birth control, such as pills or injections, transdermal patches are applied directly to the skin. This allows the hormones to be absorbed into the bloodstream without passing through the digestive system or the liver. It also means that they can be effective even if a woman experiences vomiting or diarrhea, which can sometimes affect the absorption of oral contraceptives.
What are the working principles of transdermal contraceptives?
The contraceptive effect of transdermal patches is based on the same principles as other hormonal contraceptives. By providing a steady dose of hormones, these patches effectively suppress ovulation and create an environment that is not conducive to fertilization and implantation. This reliable delivery system allows women to have control over their reproductive health and confidently prevent unwanted pregnancies.
Transdermal patches offer several advantages over other forms of birth control. They are easy to use, require minimal effort, and do not require daily administration like pills do. They also provide a constant level of hormones, reducing the chances of user error. However, it’s important to note that transdermal patches do not protect against sexually transmitted infections, and additional forms of contraception may be needed for this purpose.
In summary, transdermal patches are a highly effective and convenient form of birth control for women. Their mechanism of action is based on the steady release of hormones, which prevents ovulation and alters the cervical mucus and uterine lining. Women who use transdermal patches can have peace of mind knowing that they are effectively preventing pregnancy while enjoying the benefits of a low-maintenance contraceptive method.
Vaginal Rings
Vaginal rings are a type of female contraception that are inserted into the vagina to prevent pregnancy. They are small, flexible rings that contain hormones such as estrogen and progestin. The hormones are slowly released into the body through the vaginal lining, where they work to prevent the release of an egg from the ovaries.
The working principles of vaginal rings are similar to other forms of hormonal birth control, such as birth control pills. The hormones in the ring trick the body into thinking it is already pregnant, which stops ovulation from occurring. Additionally, the hormones cause the cervical mucus to thicken, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg if ovulation does occur.
So how exactly do vaginal rings work? When inserted into the vagina, the hormones in the ring are released and absorbed into the bloodstream. These hormones then act on the pituitary gland in the brain, inhibiting the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Without these hormones, the ovaries do not release an egg and ovulation does not occur.
In addition to preventing ovulation, vaginal rings also alter the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive to a fertilized egg. This further reduces the chances of pregnancy occurring. Overall, the combination of these mechanisms makes vaginal rings a highly effective form of contraception.
But how do vaginal rings compare to other forms of female contraceptives? Vaginal rings have a number of advantages. They are easy to use and only need to be inserted once a month. They do not require daily administration like birth control pills, and their effectiveness is not affected by other medications such as antibiotics.
On the other hand, some women may have concerns about using vaginal rings. They can cause side effects, such as irregular bleeding or vaginal discomfort. Additionally, they may not be suitable for women with certain medical conditions, such as a history of blood clots or certain types of cancer.
In conclusion, vaginal rings are a convenient and effective form of female contraception. They work by releasing hormones into the body, which prevent ovulation and make it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. While they have some potential side effects and contraindications, vaginal rings are overall a safe and reliable option for women seeking birth control.
Diaphragms
A diaphragm is a female contraceptive device that is inserted into the vagina to prevent pregnancy. The diaphragm works by blocking the cervix, which is the entrance to the uterus, to prevent sperm from reaching the egg and fertilizing it.
How do diaphragms work?
The diaphragm works as a physical barrier between the sperm and the egg. It is a flexible, dome-shaped device made of latex or silicone that is inserted into the vagina before sexual intercourse. The diaphragm is designed to cover the cervix and should be used together with a spermicide to provide better contraceptive effectiveness.
The diaphragm works by physically blocking the entrance to the uterus, preventing the sperm from reaching the egg. It also acts as a physical barrier, preventing the sperm from swimming past it. Additionally, the spermicide used with the diaphragm can immobilize or kill the sperm, further adding to its contraceptive effectiveness.
What are the working principles of diaphragms?
The working principles of diaphragms are based on the control and regulation of the female reproductive system. By blocking the cervix, the diaphragm prevents the entry of sperm into the uterus, thereby preventing fertilization and subsequent pregnancy.
The diaphragm is a reversible method of contraception, which means that women can choose to use it when they want to prevent pregnancy and remove it when they want to conceive. It is important to note that diaphragms are not always 100% effective and have a failure rate of around 6-18% depending on correct usage.
In summary, the diaphragm is a female contraceptive device that works by physically blocking the cervix, preventing sperm from reaching the egg. It is based on the principles of controlling and regulating the female reproductive system. However, it is important to use with a spermicide and remember that no contraceptive method is 100% effective.
Female Condoms
Female condoms are a type of barrier contraceptive designed specifically for women. They work by creating a physical barrier between the penis and vagina, preventing the exchange of semen and reducing the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
How do Female Condoms Work?
The working principle of female condoms is similar to male condoms, but they are worn inside the vagina instead of over the penis. The female condom is a lubricated pouch made of polyurethane or latex that has a flexible ring at each end. One end is inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix, while the other end remains outside the body, covering the labia.
During sexual intercourse, the penis enters the condom-covered vagina, and the pouch acts as a barrier, preventing sperm from reaching the cervix. The female condom also helps to prevent skin-to-skin contact, reducing the transmission of STIs such as HIV, herpes, and HPV.
What are the Mechanisms of Action for Female Contraception?
Female condoms provide a dual mechanism of action for contraception. Firstly, the physical barrier created by the condom prevents sperm from reaching the egg, thus preventing fertilization and pregnancy. Secondly, the presence of the female condom reduces the risk of STI transmission by preventing direct contact between the penis and vagina.
The female condom is an effective method of birth control, with a similar failure rate to male condoms when used correctly and consistently. It is also a good option for women who cannot use hormonal contraceptives or prefer non-hormonal methods of contraception.
What Does the Future Hold for Female Contraception?
The development of female condoms has provided women with an additional tool for contraception and STI prevention. However, there is still a need for further research and innovation in this field to improve the design, effectiveness, and acceptability of female condoms.
Researchers are exploring the use of new materials and designs to make female condoms more comfortable, easier to use, and more widely accepted. Additionally, efforts are being made to increase awareness and accessibility of female condoms to ensure that women have a variety of options for contraception.
Overall, female condoms play an important role in the landscape of contraceptive methods, offering women the ability to take control of their reproductive health and protect themselves from unwanted pregnancies and STIs.
Natural Family Planning
Natural Family Planning (NFP), also known as fertility awareness-based methods, is a mechanism of contraception that involves tracking and understanding a woman’s menstrual cycle to avoid or achieve pregnancy.
How does Natural Family Planning work?
Unlike other forms of contraception, NFP relies on understanding the working principles of a woman’s body and her menstrual cycle. It involves tracking changes in cervical mucus, basal body temperature, and other signs to identify fertile and infertile periods.
During the fertile period, when ovulation occurs and the egg is released, couples practicing NFP abstain from sexual intercourse or use barrier methods of contraception to prevent pregnancy. In contrast, during the infertile period, intercourse may be freely engaged in without the risk of pregnancy.
What are the benefits of Natural Family Planning?
Natural Family Planning provides a natural and hormone-free method of birth control for women who prefer to avoid hormonal contraceptives. It allows women to understand and connect with their bodies, fostering a sense of empowerment and control over their reproductive health.
Other benefits include its cost-effectiveness, as it does not require purchasing contraceptives regularly, and its lack of side effects. Additionally, NFP can be used by couples who are trying to conceive, as it helps identify the most fertile times for intercourse.
What are the limitations of Natural Family Planning?
Despite its benefits, NFP has some limitations. It requires consistent monitoring and diligent record-keeping to accurately predict fertile and infertile periods. It may take time and practice to learn the signs and patterns of a woman’s menstrual cycle, making it less suitable for those who prefer a more spontaneous approach to intimacy.
Moreover, NFP is less effective than other contraceptive methods when not followed correctly or when cycles are irregular. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so additional barrier methods may be necessary to reduce the risk of transmission.
In conclusion, Natural Family Planning is a method of contraception that relies on understanding a woman’s menstrual cycle to prevent or achieve pregnancy. While it requires diligent monitoring and may not be suitable for all couples, it offers a hormone-free and empowering approach to birth control.