Conceiving is one of the happiest moments in a couple’s life. However, if for any reason you want to take your time to becoming parents remember there are ways to avoid a pregnancy. For women who want to delay shouldering the responsibility of parenthood without subjecting their bodies to chemicals or implants, natural means of contraception are worth considering. Are you too on the hunt for natural ways to avoid pregnancy?

Yes, even before chemical contraceptives and condoms were introduced into our world women used various natural ways to control unwanted pregnancy. These natural remedies are known since ages to be safe on the body and do not have any side effects as well.

Given below are 10 natural ways to avoid pregnancy

#1. Neem Leaves

Neem leaves are considered to be one of the natural ways to avoid pregnancy. They reduce the sperm movement in the body and can be used by men in the form of tablets to encourage temporary sterility.

As a contraceptive, neem can be used in different forms like leaves, oil, and leaf extract; all of which are effective. Neem oil can be applied to the vaginal walls, using a cotton ball soaked in the oil. Place the cotton inside the vagina for 15 minutes before intercourse to enjoy its contraceptive benefits that are known to last for five hours.

Neem oil also works as a great lubricant and protects from vaginal infections as well as sexually transmitted diseases.

#2. Papaya

Papaya is the most common and excellent option for birth control. Raw or unripe papaya and more so, its seeds have abortive and contraceptive properties. That is why the fruit works wonderfully as emergency contraceptives for someone who wants to prevent an unplanned pregnancy post unprotected intercourse.

When consumed daily for 2-3 days after intercourse, papaya can prevent a pregnancy. However, it is also important that you must immediately stop consuming it if you have conceived else it may lead to an abortion.

Papaya seeds also act as male contraceptives. When taken daily, they reduce the sperm count significantly. The effect however is reversible and once the couple wants to plan a baby, they can stop papaya intake to improve fertility.

#3. Dried Fig

Commonly called “Anjeer”, it is another widely used remedy for birth control. Over-eating of fig may affect the stomach and therefore consuming just 2-3 figs daily post intercourse until you get the period is advisable. Their contraceptive and abortive properties help prevent unexpected pregnancies.

Figs also help to increase the blood circulation in the body and regulate your hormones.

#4. Dried Apricot

Apricots are ideally to be used only if your pregnancy test in negative and should be avoided in case of positive test result as they may lead to an abortion.

This remedy also helps in controlling excessive bleeding during the menstrual cycle.

Mix apricots with one teaspoon of honey and water in a cup and boil this mixture until it reduces to half a cup. This can then be consumed once a day until your periods happen.

#5. Parsley

Parsley is an Ayurveda herb that is easily available and is best used in the form of a herbal tea. It is commonly called “Ajamoda” and is an effective ingredient for controlling childbirth. Since it is very mild, it does not have any side effects on the body.

Fresh parsley or its dried form can be boiled with water and strained into a cup. This tea can be consumed daily to avoid pregnancy.

#6. Cotton Root Bark

Cotton rook bark is nothing but the roots of the cotton plant. Tea made from cotton root bark stimulates the release of oxytocin, which is the hormone that causes childbirth. Hence, it makes an effective contraceptive.

Add 3-4 pieces of cotton root to a cup of boiling water. Let it steep for 15-20 minutes. Then drink it. This can be taken once a day, daily, for best results.

Also Read: What could bleeding mean in pregnancy? Should I visit to the doctor?

#7. Ginger

Ginger root is yet another surprising ingredient that promotes birth control by stimulating menstrual bleeding.

Add grated ginger to a cup of boiling water and allow it to steep for 5-7 minutes. Strain this liquid and consume this infusion while it is still hot. You can do this twice daily for best results.

#8. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is not widely used as birth control remedy, but its consumption for a longer duration can help in avoiding pregnancy. It stimulates the uterus and induces abortion and miscarriage.

However, it is always advisable to consult your naturopath before consuming cinnamon as a contraceptive.

#9. Buckwheat

An effective herb that prevents conception of a pregnancy, buckwheat consists of a compound called Rutin that prevents insemination.

It is said to be a perfect contraceptive as it is a safe herb and has no side effects. You can consult your naturopath to understand the exact dosage in grams for this herb.

Also Read: Is It Safe To Get Waxed During Pregnancy?

#10. Pennyroyal (Spearmint)

This is one of the ancient herbs used to prevent unwanted pregnancies. The best way to consume this herb is to add dried bits of it to your tea.

However, it is important to consult a doctor regarding the dosage and always have pennyroyal in a minimum dosage as it may have toxic effects if consumed more than recommended.

Irrespective of the remedy, you use to avoid pregnancy, always consult your Ayurvedic practitioner or a Naturopath for advice on how to use these remedies. This is because even though they are natural, they may possess certain side effects or may lead to irreversible infertility if taken incorrectly. Always check for safety and risks associated with every ingredient before its consumption as, nothing is 100% safe or accurate for everyone.

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