Table of Contents
9 Types of contraception to prevent pregnancy
1. Condoms
Condoms are one of the first things that pop in the mind when it comes to safe sex. It is a popularly followed barrier method, and is considered one of the best methods to prevent pregnancy and even sexually transmitted infections. A condom blocks the sperm from reaching the egg, says Dr Bajaj. Female condoms have also gained prominence over the years, giving the woman the power to take pregnancy control in her own hands.
2. Birth control pills
Oral contraceptives are commonly known as birth control pills, and are hormonal medications that need to be taken daily to prevent pregnancy. The expert explains that they work by inhibiting ovulation and altering the cervical mucus to make it harder for sperm to reach the egg.
2. Intrauterine devices or IUDs
IUDs are small and T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus by a professional. They prevent pregnancy by either releasing hormones or creating an environment that is unfavourable for fertilisation.
3. Injectable contraceptives
Injectable contraceptives involve getting hormone injections every few months. These injections prevent ovulation and offer effective contraception.
4. Implantable devices
Implantable contraceptives like the contraceptive implant or the contraceptive patch are also small devices. They can be easily placed under the skin, and they release hormones that prevent ovulation.
5. Emergency contraception
Many of us know it as the morning after pill. It is used after having unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It can help to prevent pregnancy if taken within a specific timeframe, says Dr Bajaj.
6. Natural family planning
This method involves monitoring a woman’s menstrual cycle and identifying fertile and infertile periods. This method requires careful tracking of ovulation and abstaining from sex during fertile periods.
7. Cervical cap
It is a small silicone or latex cup that covers the cervix, blocking sperm from entering the uterus. It needs to be used with spermicide so that it is more effective.
8. Diaphragm
It is a dome-shaped barrier device that covers the cervix, similar to what a cervical cap does. It also forms a good pair with spermicide.
9. Tubal ligation and vasectomy
If you want permanent surgical methods of contraception then these can help. While tubal ligation is the blocking or sealing of the fallopian tubes in women, vasectomy is the cutting or sealing of the vas deferens in men.