There are 5 basic types of contraceptives; natural family planning, barrier methods, hormonal methods, IUDs, and sterilization. There are pros and cons to each birth control method, so you should consider them all carefully before choosing one.
Natural family planning doesn’t use any artificial means to prevent sperm from reaching the egg. The most common natural family planning is the rhythm method. This works best for women with perfectly regular periods. If you are using natural family planning as your birth control option, you must count days and be very careful.
Probably the most well-known birth control is the barrier method. Condoms and diaphragms are examples of barriers. Condoms not only prevent pregnancy but also sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV or herpes. No other form of birth control can do this so this method is best for people who have multiple partners.
Hormonal birth control is also well known, nearly everyone has heard of birth control pills. Birth control pills can also be used to help regulate a woman’s menstrual cycle. However, pills are not for someone who can’t remember to take them daily.
IUDs are intrauterine devices. There are 2 types, a copper IUD and a hormonal IUD. Both are good for long-term birth control, the hormonal version lasts up to 5 years while the copper one lasts up to 10. They are great for women who are in established relationships and have already given birth.
Sterilization is a permanent type of birth control. Both men and women can be sterilized, but they must be absolutely sure they don’t want children ever. Some doctors won’t perform the surgery unless the patient has children.
Birth control is a very personal decision. What works for one person won’t work for another. Its best to talk to your doctor about birth control because he or she can help you decide what type of birth control will work best for you.