There are different types and methods of birth control that help prevent unwanted pregnancies. The barrier methods, such as using a condom or diaphragm, are popular as it prevents contact between the sperm and the egg. Other types of birth control are hormonal, natural, and surgical, and a few of these types have side effects. Therefore, it is always best to consult a doctor before using any type of birth control. Read on to know more about different birth control types.

• Hormonal birth control

In this method, pregnancy is prevented using hormonal patches, vaginal rings, or birth control pills. These contain hormones like estrogen and progestin that prevents pregnancy. The birth control pill, which is a combination of both these hormones, is highly effective if taken as prescribed. Usually, one has to take one pill per day. However, follow the instructions that are prescribed by the doctor that has access to your present health condition.

• Barrier birth control

This involves using condoms, spermicides, or cervical caps, and these work immediately on use. Condoms are more commonly used as they prevent STDs and are easy to use. There are two types of condoms, the male and female condom. The male one, however, is more common; it is thin, made of materials like latex or polyurethane, and can be easily rolled over an erect penis. It acts as a “barrier” during sexual intercourse, and its ease of use makes it one of the most popular barrier birth control methods.

• Surgical sterilization

This method involves a surgeon operating on one’s sexual organs to permanently prevent pregnancy. The surgical process for males is called vasectomy, while for females is called occlusion or tubal ligation.

• Natural birth control

Natural birth control is a type of pregnancy prevention that avoids the use of physical insertions or pills. It aims to prevent birth by natural methods, like being aware of one’s fertility. For instance, in the basal body temperature method, a woman must observe her body temperature daily in the morning. If the temperature of her body is about 1°F, a day or half-a-day before the ovaries begin to release the egg, it is a period of high fertility. This is a red flag, and she shouldn’t engage in sexual intercourse in this period to avoid pregnancy.

• Physical device insertion

This type of birth control involves the insertion of a physical device that prevents the sperm from reaching the uterus. For example, an Intrauterine Device or IUD is a tiny piece of plastic that is flexible and used as an effective contraceptive in this method. IUDs last for years, and the process is reversible. If one decides that they want to get pregnant, they can simply remove the IUD.