Birth control is the use of different methods to prevent conception or pregnancy. It is imperative to consider various elements to choose the most appropriate contraceptive method. Safety, effectiveness, accessibility, and affordability are some factors that need to be taken into consideration to make an informed choice. With the progressing day and era, various devices and treatments are available for both men and women. Read to know more about some common methods of birth control.

Barrier methods

• Male condom
  This is one of the most common methods of birth control. Placed on a penis before intercourse, male condoms stop the sperm from entering the vagina by forming a barrier.
• Female condom
  Female condoms have a flexible ring at each end and are placed behind the pubic bone to hold it in place. The other ring remains outside the vagina.
• Diaphragm or cervical cap
  It looks like a thimble dome-shaped cup which is placed inside the vagina to cover to block the sperm. It has a firm but flexible ring that helps it press against the vaginal walls.
• Spermicide
  This comes in gel, cream, film, suppository, or tablet form and works by killing the sperm. They are placed in the vagina no more than an hour before intercourse and can be left in place for six to eight hours. Spermicide is often used in combination with a male condom, diaphragm, or cervical cap.
• Sponge
  Sponges are placed in the vagina covering the cervix and contain a spermicide foam (kills male sperm). The foam then acts like a fence that prevents the sperm from reaching the egg.

Hormonal methods

• IUD (Intrauterine device)
  There are two types of this birth control method. The copper T intrauterine device is a small T-shaped device placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. It has a life of up to 10 years. The second one is the Levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG IUD), a similarly shaped device, but this type releases a small amount of progestin every day to prevent pregnancy. It has a lifespan of 3 to 6 years.
• Implant

It is a single, thin rod inserted under a woman’s upper arms, which releases progestin into the body for 3 years.

• Contraceptive pill
  This pill contains estrogen and progesterone, which stops ovulation and prevents pregnancy.
• Patch
  Worn on the lower abdomen, buttocks, or upper body, it releases progestin and estrogen into the bloodstream. It needs to be replaced every three weeks. Once you remove it, your menstrual period will start.
• Vaginal ring
  Inserted into the vagina, it releases low doses of progestin and estrogen, which thickens cervical mucus so that sperm cannot move easily.
• Injection
  Women get shots of progestin in the arms or buttocks every three months to prevent pregnancy.

Permanent methods

• Tubal ligation for females
  In this surgery, the doctor will block or tie the fallopian tubes so that sperm and egg cannot meet.
• Vasectomy for males
  The tubes (vas deferens) through which sperm passes for ejaculation are cut or blocked in this surgery performed by a surgeon.