Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills are taken daily by a woman to prevent eggs from being produced.  A prescription is required for this method, and side effects are possible.

Depo-Provera

Depo-Provera is a time-release hormone that prevents a woman from producing eggs.  It is given by injection every three months.  A prescription is required for this method, and side effects are possible.

The diaphragm is a small, thin rubber cup.  The cervical cap is similar, but smaller.  Either one can be filled with spermicide and placed over the opening to the woman's uterus to keep sperm out.  A prescription is required for these methods.

A condom is a thin sheath that fits over the penis or lines the vagina before intercourse.  Condoms block semen from entering the vagina.  Latex and polyurethane condoms also help protect against many sexually transmitted diseases.

An IUD (intrauterine device) is a small metal or plastic loop or ring that is inserted into the uterus.  It prevents a fertilized egg from attaching to the uterine wall.  A prescription is required for this method, and side effects are possible.

Natural Family Planning

This method, also known as the rhythm method, requires abstaining from sex during the woman's fertile period, which generally lasts from 5 to 15 days during each menstrual cycle.  To learn more about this method, ask a qualified physician or natural family planning practitioner.

Spermicides are chemical foams, creams, or jellies that kill sperm.  They are placed directly into the vagina and are often used with other forms of birth control such as condoms or diaphragms.  Some people have allergic reactions to spermicides.

Norplant is a set of small capsules that release hormones for five years.  This form of time-released hormone prevents a woman from producing eggs.  The capsules are placed under the skin of the arm.  A prescription and a minor insertion  procedure are required, and side effects are possible.

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