The contraceptive pill no longer takes center stage alone. According to a video published by @lumnifr, more and more women are turning to other means of contraception, particularly because of the side effects and constraints associated with the pill.
Among the options cited, the intrauterine device, or IUD, now occupies an important place in France, while symptomothermy attracts those who wish to observe their cycle. Natural methods such as withdrawal or the calendar also remain used, but the source warns of their more limited reliability.
The IUD, a sustainable alternative to the pill
The intrauterine device, better known as the IUD, appears to be one of the main alternatives to the pill. Unlike the contraceptive tablet, it does not require daily intake, which notably reduces the constraints linked to forgetting.
The trend is reflected in the data available on contraception in France. According to Health Insurance, 27.7% of women aged 18 to 49 using contraception used an IUD or IUD in 2023, compared to 26.8% for the pill. The same source reports a decline in the use of the pill, which concerned 36.4% of women in 2016.
The IUD exists in several forms. The copper model does not contain any hormones, while the levonorgestrel IUD releases a synthetic hormone. Health Insurance indicates a duration of use of 4 to 10 years for the copper IUD and 5 years for the hormonal IUD.
Symptothermy appeals to those who want a natural method
The other avenue mentioned in the video is symptomothermy. This method is based on the observation of the menstrual cycle, in particular through different bodily signs such as cervical mucus and temperature. It therefore requires learning and regular observation.
In the video, Dr. Marpeau emphasizes his methodical nature: “It’s a scientific method“. Symptothermy is therefore not just about counting the days of the cycle. Its use is based on precise knowledge of the different fertility indicators.
This approach attracts women who wish to do without hormonal contraception, but it also requires more daily involvement. It stands out as an option that requires commitment and precision rather than an automatic solution.
Natural methods, beware of the risk of error
Withdrawal, the calendar method or even methods based solely on body temperature may seem simpler. However, their level of reliability is lower when used alone.
SDr Olivier Marpeau directly warns against these practices. The difference with a method like the IUD lies in particular in the degree of precision required and the possibility of error in observing the cycle.
The choice of contraception therefore depends on the method sought, the constraints one accepts and one’s personal situation. The ideal is always to turn to specialists in order to be guided towards suitable contraception.