Types of Birth Control

Contraception is a term used for the prevention of pregnancy, and it is often referred to as birth control. There are several methods of contraception, some of which are created for women and others for men. Some methods are considered permanent while others are reversible. The majority of birth control methods fall into one of two categories: barrier or hormonal. There are also four other methods: sterilization (surgery), withdrawal, natural family planning and abstinence.
It is important to examine the different methods of birth control and other related considerations as you determine which method of contraception is best for you. It is important to remember that most birth control methods prevent pregnancy, but they do not prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. If you are sexually active and using a form of birth control, it is important to remember that all forms of birth control have a failure rate. You should take a pregnancy test if you are experiencing any pregnancy symptoms.
Below is a brief description of each type of contraception. Additional detailed information is available through links to each specific type of contraception.

Traditional birth control methods

Celibacy or sexual abstinence - this means avoiding penis-in-vagina intercourse to prevent pregnancy.
Withdrawal (coitus interruptus) - when the man is about to have an orgasm he pulls his penis out of the vagina. The ejaculation occurs outside of the vagina. The idea behind this method is that no sperm will be deposited in the vagina. According to some organizations this method is about 90% effective if used correctly. Typically, though, about one third of couples who use this method will experience an accidental pregnancy within twelve months.
Modern birth control methods
Male condom - this device is a mechanical barrier which prevents pregnancy by stopping sperm from entering the vagina. It should be placed over the penis before sexual intercourse begins. They are made of polyurethane or latex. Male condoms look like long thin deflated balloons. As well as preventing pregnancy, they are also useful in helping protect sexual partners from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Female condom - made of polyurethane. The female condom has a flexible ring at each end - one secures behind the pubic bone to hold the condom in place, while the other ring stays outside the vagina.
Spermicides - may be placed in the vagina before intercourse and create a chemical barrier. Spermicides may be used alone, or in combination with a physical barrier.
Contraceptive sponge - The contraceptive sponge has a depression to hold it in place over the cervix. Foam is placed into the vagina using an applicator. As well as having a spermicidal which destroys the male sperm, the sponge also acts as a barrier which stops the sperm from reaching the egg.

Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills are a common type of contraception. If you're considering taking birth control pills, you may have more choices than you'd think.
You'll start by choosing either combination birth control pills or minipills. If you choose combination birth control pills, you'll have another choice — conventional packs or continuous dosing. With conventional birth control pills, you'll have a period every month. With continuous dosing birth control pills, you may have a period only four times a year or eliminate your period entirely.
Of course, each type of birth control pill has its own risks and benefits. Understand the basics, then work with your health care provider to determine the best birth control pill for you.

Barrier methods of birth control

Barrier methods of birth control
Barrier methods prevent pregnancy by blocking sperm from getting into the uterus. They include the diaphragm, the cervical cap, contraceptive sponges and condoms. Barrier methods must be used every time birth control
A woman must visit her doctor to be fitted for a diaphragm or a cervical cap. Using a diaphragm, cervical cap or contraceptive sponge may increase the risk of urinary tract infections in some women. Some women have allergic reactions with these methods.

Are condoms a good choice?
Yes. Condoms aren't expensive and are widely available. Condoms can be combined with other methods of birth control. Condoms are an especially good choice if you or your partner are also having sex with other people or if either of you have had sex with other people in the past.
Of all the barrier method options, condoms offer the most protection against STIs. Using a spermicide with condoms can offer better protection against pregnancy, but it may not increase your protection against STIs. Spermicides containing nonoxynol-9 can cause genital irritation and may actually increase your risk of catching an STI.
Female condoms aren't as effective as male condoms, but they may be a good choice if a man won't use a male condom.