Birth control, also known as contraception, is designed to prevent pregnancy. Birth control methods may work in a number of different ways. These include:
- Preventing sperm from getting to the eggs - condoms, diaphragms, and intrauterine devices (IUDs) work this way
- Keeping the woman's ovaries from releasing eggs that could be fertilized - birth control pills work this way
- Sterilization, which permanently prevents a woman from getting pregnant or a man from being able to get a woman pregnant
Your doctor can help you select the best form of birth control for you.
Types of birth control
- The Birth Control Pill
- The Mini Pill - Progesterone Only
- The Birth Control Patch
- The Birth Control Vaginal Ring
- Intrauterine Device (IUD)
- The Progesterone Intrauterine Device
- Tubal Sterilization
- Birth Control Cervical Cap
- Birth Control Sponge
- Diaphragm
- Spermicide
- Birth Control Injection
- Vasectomy
- Male Condom
- Birth Control Implant
- Fertility Awareness Method
- Female Condom
- How To Choose A Birth Control Pill
- Questions About The Pill
- Emergency Contraception
- Contraception after Pregnancy
From: Contraception. 2011 May; 83(5): 397–404.