Generally, birth control is meant to prevent pregnancy, and many methods can be used to achieve this. There is the hormonal birth control method, for starters, which helps prevent ovulation by making the woman’s egg unable to fertilize with the male sperm. There is also the barrier method, which inhibits the sperm from fertilizing with the egg. Additionally, there is also the spermicide method where the sperm is destroyed.

Below are outlined several types of contraception that can be used in order to prevent pregnancy:

1. Condoms
A condom is a synthetic sheath that was created to be worn by a man on his erect penis during intercourse to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Ideally, it is meant to stop sperm from entering the woman’s vagina so that fertilization will not take place. It is very effective in preventing pregnancy, and you can buy it from the nearest drugstore.

2. Diaphragms
A diaphragm is made of silicon, and it is used by a woman to cover her cervix to prevent the entrance of sperm via the uterus. Technically, it serves the same purpose as condoms, but a diaphragm can be reused, unlike condoms. If they are inserted the proper way, diaphragms are very effective in preventing pregnancies.

3. Intrauterine device (IUD)
An IUD is primarily a device implanted into the womb of a woman to prevent pregnancy occurrence. Generally, there are two types of IUDs that women can use. The first type is the progestin IUD, which lasts for at least five years, and the other one is the copper, which lasts up to ten years. The intrauterine device destroys sperm cells before they reach the womb for fertilization. Furthermore, an IUD can also change the uterus’ structure, making it unsuitable for pregnancy. It is the best contraception option for those who wish to have a long-term mode of protection.

4. Birth control pills or injections
These oral pills or injections contain specific synthetic hormones, which are administered to prevent pregnancy. This injection is administered to a female patient every 12 weeks so that it works adequately. A birth control pill is taken every day at the same time for a period of 21 or 28 days. However, these hormonal options often have some side-effects like mood swings, headaches, and tummy discomfort.

5. Vaginal ring
The vaginal ring contains pills that work to prevent ovulation. This ring is placed inside the vagina, and it is typically left to stay there for at least three weeks before it gets removed. Additionally, it gets removed for at least seven days to allow the user to have their regular period. When used the right way, it is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

Indeed, contraception is an effective method of preventing unwanted pregnancies, and every woman deserves to be aware of her options.